Team Delta’s Oyinlomo Barakat Quadre underlined her status as one of Nigeria’s brightest tennis prospects with a commanding performance in the mixed doubles at the 22nd National Sports Festival (2024 NSF), in Ogun State.
Partnering Iloputa Okechukwu, Quadre guided her team into the quarterfinals with a straight-sets victory over Musa Bala and Punarman Bajo.
The 5–3, 4–0 win at the MKO Abiola Tennis Court set up a last-eight clash with Team Taraba.
Now 23, Quadre’s pedigree is well established. In March 2018, she was ranked number one in Nigeria, ninth in Africa, and 945th globally in singles.
She began playing the sport at the age of four and rose to a junior ranking of 173rd in the world in June 2019.
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Following Friday’s victory, Quadre spoke candidly about her mixed doubles experience. “It was nice. It still feels strange to play mixed doubles,” she told Athletic NG and Prime Sports Radio.
“It’s been years since I last did, and it always seems to come around at the festival. That’s what makes this competition so special.”
Barakat Quadre at 2024 NSF. Photo Credit: Athletic Images
Now in her third appearance at the National Sports Festival, the US-based player is eyeing double gold. On Sunday, she faces 17-year-old Comfort Yakubu of Ogun State in the women’s singles final — a contest she is relishing.
“Gold is the target; I’ve got ambitions to win both the mixed and singles golds.”” she said.
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Unfazed by expectation, Quadre embraces the pressure that comes with her growing reputation. “I’ve always played with pressure. Pressure is a privilege. It’s something nice to look forward to.”
Looking beyond the festival, Quadre hinted at a significant step in her career trajectory.
“I’m in transition now. I’ve been playing college tennis for three years, and I will graduate next year. It’s a big year for me. I’m looking to turn fully professional, improve my rankings over the summer, and really see how next year unfolds.”
