The Grand Slam tournaments provide a platform for junior players to dive into the professional world of tennis. It enables them to gain exposure to the competitive nature of tennis. Further, the major tournaments act as a bridge for junior stars, from amateur to turning professional. Some of the junior champions who have gone on to become legends in tennis include Rod Laver, John McEnroe, Roger Federer, Martina Hingis, and many others. The Australian Open was the first to introduce junior competitions. Other majors followed suit after receiving positive responses from the players.

Further, this year’s Grand Slam Down Under will be remembered for the number of records that were made. Rafael Nadal became the most decorated player at the Grand Slams in men’s singles. Additionally, in the juniors section, Angella Okutoyi of Kenya and Meshkatolzahra Safi of Iran became the first players from their respective nations to win a Grand Slam juniors match.

DIVE DEEPER: ‘Want to Bring You All Closer to My Game’- Rafael Nadal Joins Tom Brady’s NFT Platform Following Australian Open 2022 Victory

Angella Okutoyi receives a hero’s welcome after Australian Open 2022 campaign

The 18-year-old tennis star, Angella Okutoyi, was warmly welcomed in her hometown of Nairobi, Kenya, after a successful Australian Open 2022 campaign. Further, the African U-18 and U-14 champion’s name was doing rounds on social media in Africa after her achievement.

“I am happy to represent my country and everyone back home. It gives me motivation and I believe it gives Kenyan kids motivation to believe they can also do it,” Angella said on the back of her successful campaign.

Further, many global superstars praised her stupendous effort. Oscar-winning actress Lupita Nyong’o was among the many who had words of appreciation for the Kenyan. She said, “Look at you!!! So proud and cheering you on Angella Okutoyi! Best of luck in your match tonight.”

Additionally, many legends took to social media to congratulate the two players from Kenya and Iran.

Top Stories

Novak Djokovic Makes a Bold Coaching Move As He Looks the Challenge Carlos Alcaraz & Jannik Sinner in 2026

Russian Tennis Hit Hard as Another WTA Player Forfeits Citizenship

Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner Take Bizarre On-Court Decision as Australian Open Countdown Begins

Aryna Sabalenka Breaks Silence on Nationality Switch After Belarus Representation Ban

WTA Player’s Misbehavior With Ball Kid Triggers Backlash From Former Tennis Pro

Further, Angella Okutoyi managed to reach the third round in girls’ singles at the inaugural Grand Slam of the season. She went down to Lola Radivojevic of Serbia in the pre-quarterfinals. Her incredible effort will surely be one of many as she enters the big stage in her career.

WATCH THIS STORY: 5 Rafael Nadal Shots That Made Commentators Go Wild at Australian Open 2022