Kenya’s tennis teen sensation Angela Okutoyi continues making history as she became the first ever to win the LG/Sports Journalists Association of Kenya (SJAK) Sports Personality of the Month award three times.
Okutoyi stood out among tough competitors that included African 100m record holder Ferdinand Omanyala, double World Champion Faith Kipyegon and recently crowned 800m world champion Emmanuel Korir.
Okutoyi who became the first ever Kenyan to win a grandslam title when she emerged victorious at the double’s category in Wimbledon last month, won the sought-after crown in January last year, January this year as well and followed up with a third title in July.
“I feel very happy and proud to have won this award three times. It is not something easy and I want to thank everyone for their recognition. I am really pleased and despite having been here before, it is a new feeling every time,” said the 53rd-ranked junior and Kenya’s top tennis player.
“I want to dedicate this to Tennis Kenya, my coaches, my family and more so my grandmother who has been there through thick and thin.” She added.
Okutoyi, partnered Netherland’s Rose Marie Nijkamp to beat Canadian pair of Kayla Cross and Victoria Mboko 3-6, 6-4, 11-9.
In winning the July award, Okutoyi received a trophy engraved to her name and an LG Nanocell TV worth Sh120, 000.
LG Electronics Marketing Director Changhyun Kim congratulated Okutoyi for her hard work and determination saying she is an inspiration to other sports personalities hoping to make it big at international level.
“As a brand, LG will endeavor to encourage our sports men and women through these awards to raise the bar higher as a way of recognizing their dedicated efforts in the lucrative industry. It is that extra effort that has seen Okutoyi join the growing list of junior international tennis stars,” said Kim.