As part of International Women’s Day, Africa Top Sports pays tribute to African sportswomen who have achieved extraordinary records and notable performances in the world of sports, breaking barriers in what is sometimes considered a male-dominated field.
One of the highlighted athletes is Chinwendu Ihezuo from Nigeria, who, at the age of 16, was elected Best Newcomer at the first edition of Africa Top Sports Awards. The young striker distinguished herself during the Under-17 World Cup in Azerbaijan, scoring five goals in a match against the host country and finishing as the top scorer of the competition with six goals.
The Africa Top Sports Awards Sportswoman of the Year is Caster Semenya from South Africa. At 22 years old, Semenya won a silver medal at the London Olympic Games in 2012 and holds the 800m record (1.55 minutes) set on August 19, 2009. She is a world champion in the 800m and has consistently excelled in her athletic career.
Another South African athlete honored is Noko Matlou, who easily won the title of Female Footballer of the Year at the Africa Top Sports Awards. Matlou, a striker, has had a remarkable career, winning awards such as the best footballer of the year in 2008 and sportswoman of the year in South Africa in 2011. She has scored 40 goals in 45 matches for the national team and participated in the 2012 Olympic Games in London.
These athletes symbolize the progress and achievements of African women in sports, showcasing their talent, dedication, and determination in breaking down barriers.