Onwuzurike laments the chance he didn't take to participate in the World Championships

Posted : 13 August 2023

Udodi Onwuzurike, the second-fastest 200m sprinter in Nigeria's history and currently based in the U.S., expresses his disappointment at missing out on a valuable opportunity to compete for the second time in the World Championships.

The championships are scheduled to take place in Budapest, Hungary, starting from August 19.

Earlier this year, Onwuzurike achieved an impressive time of 19.76 seconds in the 200m race. However, his hopes were dashed due to an injury he sustained while participating in the NCAA competitions in the United States.

He returned to Nigeria to take part in the National Trials in June and was also a member of the nation's 4x100m relay team at the African Region 2 competition held in Togo.

Both Onwuzurike and another U.S.-based sprinter, Godson Brume, will not be able to participate in the Budapest event.

Onwuzurike, a former world U-20 champion, had won the 200m title at the 2023 NCAA outdoor track and field Championships in June, making him one of the athletes the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) had high hopes for in terms of podium finishes. Unfortunately, a hamstring injury has forced him to abandon his plans.

Despite these setbacks, Onwuzurike's determination remains unshaken. Having already made his debut for Team Nigeria at the previous World Championships in Oregon, United States, in 2022, he currently holds the fifth-fastest time of the year and shares the 26th spot in the world all-time ranking.

In a recent post on his Twitter page, he expresses confidence in his comeback, aiming to return stronger next year. He also sends his best wishes to his teammates participating in Budapest.

In his message, he explains, "Following a recent struggle with a hamstring injury, my medical team has advised me to sit out this year's World Championships. I've dedicated myself fully, but regrettably, my body requires adequate rest to heal and prevent further damage. Making this decision hasn't been easy. I've invested my heart and soul into every step leading up to this event, and it's disheartening to witness my season conclude this way."

He goes on to share, "I've explored every option, leaving no stone unturned. However, there isn't enough time remaining for a complete recovery. Although it's hard to see it now, I genuinely believe that this setback will only ignite my determination to return even stronger next year."

Addressing his teammates and friends, he expresses his hope that they will give their best and bring pride to their country.

He plans to utilize this time for healing, recovery, and ultimately, a more robust return. He concludes by extending his best wishes to fellow athletes participating in this year's World Championships, showing his support and encouragement from the sidelines.

Onwuzurike laments the chance he didn't take to participate in the World Championships

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