Former Nigerian soccer player Peter Odemwingie has transitioned into a professional golfer after graduating from golf school. The Professional Golfers Association (PGA) announced Odemwingie’s admission into its ranks on Tuesday.
Odemwingie, who was born in Uzbekistan to a Russian mother and Nigerian father, said he fell in love with golf during the latter part of his soccer career. He highlighted the difficulty of adapting to the “loneliness” of golf after playing a “group sport” like soccer.
Despite the challenges, Odemwingie is proud of his accomplishment, telling the PGA official website: “It’s motivating being around people who have the drive to achieve and get this PGA Member badge on your chest!” He passed the playing ability test and was accepted into the PGA program, which he described as an exciting milestone.
Odemwingie made his debut for the Nigerian national soccer team, the Super Eagles, in 2002 and went on to earn 63 caps. He played in the 2014 World Cup, scoring against Bosnia Hezergovania in the group stage to help Nigeria advance to the round of 16.
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Before retiring from soccer in 2019, Odemwingie played for clubs in Nigeria, France, Russia, and England, including West Brom, Cardiff City, and Stoke City in the Premier League. His transition to professional golf marks a new chapter in his athletic career.
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