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20-year-old tennis sensation Angella Okutoyi Thursday cemented her status as a rising star by claiming a historic gold medal for Kenya at the African Games in Accra, the Ghanaian capital. Okutoyi dominated the women’s singles competition, defeating Abdelaziz Lamiz of Egypt in straight sets (6-4, 6-2) on Thursday.
This victory marks a significant milestone for Kenyan tennis. Okutoyi becomes the first Kenyan to win a gold medal in the African Games’ women’s singles category. Her win also secures her a coveted spot at the upcoming 2024 Paris Olympics.
In 2022, she captured the Wimbledon title in the girls’ doubles category. This year’s African Games journey wasn’t without challenges. In a thrilling semi-final clash, Okutoyi overcame a tough opponent, Mayar Sheriff of Egypt, in a three-set battle (5-7, 7-5, 7-6).
Despite a brief fight from Lamiz in the first set, Okutoyi displayed exceptional control, ultimately securing the win. Her talent was evident, building upon her previous success as the first Kenyan to win a Grand Slam title (Wimbledon Girls’ Juniors Doubles).
Currently ranked 532nd in the world, Okutoyi sets her sights on further stardom at the Paris Olympics. The Kenyan Sports Cabinet Secretary, Ababu Namwamba, congratulated Okutoyi “This is an historic feat. You have made us extremely proud. The last time a Kenyan came close to this feat was 46 years. The whole country is so excited.”
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