Former Super Eagles striker Osaze Odemwingie has transitioned from football to professional golf, driven by his passion for the mental challenge of the game. After completing his PGA course, he aims to inspire more Africans to embrace golf, while planning a return to football as a coach.
Former Super Eagles star, Osaze Odemwingie, has opened up about his surprising transition from football to golf. After a 19-year football career playing for clubs like Stoke City and West Bromwich Albion, Odemwingie retired in 2019 and ventured into golf. Initially disliking the sport for its slow pace, his perception changed after being introduced to golf during a training camp in 2012. He was captivated by the mental challenge of the game and began playing regularly after joining Stoke City in 2014.
Osaze credits former Stoke City manager Mark Hughes, a golf enthusiast, for fostering team bonding through golf outings, which helped players relax and bond after training. His passion for golf deepened, eventually leading him to pursue professional qualifications in the sport. Odemwingie recently completed his PGA course and is now focused on becoming a professional golfer.
Aside from golf, Odemwingie has aspirations to return to football next year, aiming to acquire his coaching badges. He also hopes to inspire more Africans to take up golf, a sport he believes lacks West African representation.
Reflecting on his career, Odemwingie said he hopes his story will encourage future generations to explore new avenues like golf, which is now an Olympic sport. His journey has sparked the interest of many fans who fondly remember him as a talented footballer and now see him excelling in a new field.
