Nigerian tennis sensation Wuraola Fatima who hails from Kwara state, has shown her brilliance not only on the tennis court but also in academics. At just 18 years old, she recently achieved a remarkable score of 351 in the University Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), reflecting her dedication and multifaceted talents.
Wuraola, who dreams of becoming a computer scientist, shared her joy with Nigeria Tennis Live, expressing her surprise and gratitude for the impressive result.
Despite primarily focusing on her A-level exams, she decided to take the UTME as a backup plan, which turned out to be a wise decision. Having been homeschooled for part of her secondary education, she navigated through challenges, including the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Her educational journey includes writing the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) exam, gaining admission, but deferring due to other commitments. Subsequently, she took a gap year before reattempting the JAMB exam. Despite facing financial hurdles that prevented her from pursuing a partial scholarship opportunity at Dominican University, New York, in 2023, Wuraola remains determined to succeed both academically and athletically.
Wuraola’s story underscores her resilience and commitment to her passions. While excelling in tennis, she also strives for excellence in her studies, embodying a balance between sports and academics. Her achievements serve as inspiration, not only to aspiring athletes but also to those pursuing academic goals in the face of adversity.
As Nigeria prepares to host the 2024 Davis Cup in Abuja, Wuraola’s success shines a spotlight on the country’s emerging talent in the world of tennis.