Yomi Fabiyi, a renowned Nollywood actor, reminisces about his lifelong passion for sports, particularly football, and reflects on his early aspirations of becoming a professional footballer. Growing up in Nigeria, Fabiyi’s love for the game was nurtured by his admiration for teams like the Super Eagles, Ajax Amsterdam, Real Madrid, and Chelsea. He actively participated in school football teams and trained alongside aspiring professionals at the National Orthopedic Hospital, even receiving mentorship from players like Okoi James Amado of Abiola Babes. While his path ultimately led him to a successful acting career, the embers of his football passion still glow brightly.
Fabiyi’s involvement in sports extends beyond his personal pursuits. He has actively participated in and organized numerous charity and friendly matches, using his platform to support individuals and causes within the movie industry and beyond. While he acknowledges that age might have tempered his physical strength, his enthusiasm for the game and his willingness to contribute to sports-related initiatives remain undiminished. His enduring support for the Super Eagles underscores a deeply rooted patriotism and love for his country’s national team. He also expresses a desire to support local clubs, particularly those from his home state of Ogun and neighboring Lagos, acknowledging the challenges facing the Nigerian local league and hoping for its resurgence to a level of national pride.
Internationally, Fabiyi’s football allegiances lie with Chelsea and Real Madrid, and he closely follows the Premier League and La Liga. In today’s fast-paced world, he primarily keeps up with sports through social media, utilizing official club handles and online platforms like YouTube for highlights and updates, ensuring he stays connected to the sporting world despite his demanding schedule. Fabiyi cherishes the unique atmosphere of live sporting events, recounting his experiences attending matches at the National Stadium in Surulere and abroad. He expresses a strong desire to relive those moments, highlighting the distinct energy and excitement that only a live event can provide.
The actor’s admiration for sporting icons extends beyond football. He expresses a deep appreciation for the talent and work ethic of football legends like Zinedine Zidane and Cristiano Ronaldo, highlighting their ability to seamlessly blend skill and dedication. In the world of boxing, Mike Tyson holds a special place in his heart. Looking towards the future, Fabiyi envisions collaborations with sports brands, teams, or athletes, hinting at ongoing discussions and a desire to align his work with impactful projects. His ambitions in this realm reflect a desire to reach for the stars, knowing that even if the ultimate goal isn’t attained, the journey itself will lead to valuable partnerships.
Turning his attention to current football affairs, Fabiyi weighs in on Ademola Lookman’s candidacy for the CAF Player of The Year Award. He firmly believes that Lookman’s contributions to both club and country, particularly his remarkable hat-trick in a European final, make him a strong contender. While acknowledging the merits of other nominees like Simon Adingra, Ashraf Hakimi, Serhou Guirassy, and Ronwen Williams, Fabiyi contends that Lookman’s exceptional performance sets him apart, making him a deserving recipient of the prestigious award. He emphasizes that Lookman’s achievements resonate not only as a source of national pride for Nigeria but also as a benchmark of excellence for footballers across Africa.
In concluding his reflections on sports and his career, Yomi Fabiyi paints a picture of a man whose passion for sports, particularly football, has remained a constant throughout his life. From his childhood dreams of becoming a professional player to his continued engagement with the sporting world through various avenues, his love for the game is undeniable. His insights into the current football landscape, particularly his endorsement of Ademola Lookman for the CAF Player of The Year Award, demonstrate his continued interest and involvement in the sport. Fabiyi’s story is a testament to the enduring power of sports to inspire, connect, and provide a common ground for individuals from all walks of life.
