Former Super Eagles striker, Peter Odemwingie, has successfully transitioned to professional golf following his graduation from the Professional Golfers Association (PGA) school.
The PGA announced Odemwingie’s achievement via social media, highlighting his illustrious football career where he played at top levels, including scoring over 30 goals in the Premier League for West Bromwich Albion, and representing Cardiff City and Stoke City. He also participated in two World Cups and won an Olympic medal in 2008. Now, Odemwingie has embraced golf as his post-football career and has attained full PGA professional status.
In a statement on the PGA website, Odemwingie expressed pride in his accomplishment, emphasizing the effort he dedicated not only to sports but also to academic pursuits. He remarked, “It’s motivating being around people who have the drive to achieve and get this PGA Member badge on your chest! I hope my story motivates people to follow suit, whether that’s through the PGA or any other form of study.”
Looking ahead, Odemwingie aims to promote golf in Nigeria and Russia, countries known for producing renowned footballers but with untapped potential in golf. He stated, “These are very sporting nations, but they don’t have golfers representing them on the world stage, which is a shame. I’ve had to put my studies first these past few years, but now that I have graduated, I am in a position to do something, and I hope to get backing to organise some tournaments in Nigeria for decent prize money.”
With his new status as a PGA Professional, Odemwingie plans to leverage opportunities to advance the sport’s visibility and development. He concluded, “Hopefully, now with my status as a PGA Professional, it will open doors and people will take it seriously, and from there, you go step by step towards your goals.”
Odemwingie, 42, made his debut for the Super Eagles in 2002 and went on to earn 63 caps for the national team before retiring from football in 2019.
