Nigeria Players Abroad
Nigeria legend Peter Odemwingie turns professional golfer after football retirement
By Monsurah Olatunji
Former Nigeria international Peter Osaze Odemwingie has embarked on a new journey in professional golf after obtaining a degree from the Professional Golfers Association (PGA).
Odemwingie, who enjoyed a successful football career, has now set his sights on achieving similar success in the world of golf.
The former Super Eagles star, who retired from football in 2018, is known for his impressive record of scoring over 30 Premier League goals for West Bromwich Albion and representing clubs like Cardiff City and Stoke City.
During his football career, Odemwingie also made 62 appearances for the Nigerian national team, scoring 11 goals and earning an Olympic medal.
In an interview with the PGA website, the 42-year-old revealed his passion for golf began towards the end of his tenure at West Brom.
He joined Aston Wood Golf Club in Staffordshire and achieved a handicap that qualified him to undertake the Playing Ability Test. This milestone marked the beginning of his professional golf journey.
Odemwingie is enthusiastic about his new path, stating, “It’s motivating itself to be around people who have the drive to get the PGA badge on their chest. It’s on its own motivating because they will learn so many life skills that at my age would still be beneficial.”
He aims to leverage his status to promote golf, particularly in Nigeria and Russia—countries known for producing many famous footballers but where golf has significant growth potential.
Odemwingie expressed his plans to organize tournaments in Nigeria with substantial prize money, hoping to inspire and nurture new talent in the sport.
“I’ve had to put my studies first these past few years, but now 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,” he shared.
“I have all the books ready to make the next step in coaching, which is the plan now. I want to keep on following that path of continuous professional development and I’m interested in the courses the PGA offers.”
Odemwingie’s transition from football to golf highlights his dedication to personal growth and his desire to make a significant impact in his new field.
