Antoine Semenyo, one of the most famous names in world football, truly embodies the oft-used terms: resilience and persistence. Semenyo’s steady and consistent rise to the top of the football pyramid is truly inspirational for millions around the globe.
Years ago, Semenyo was taking the field for the likes of Bath City and Newport County, yet through his quiet focus and self-belief, he is now a household name leading the line for Manchester City, and he experienced the recent grandeur of the Men’s World Cup for Ghana.
The successful midseason move from Bournemouth to Manchester City, this past season, was rounded off with both League and FA Cup triumphs. The latter saw Semenyo score the winner against Chelsea at Wembley Stadium.
Semenyo was in Hong Kong for the much-publicized Hong Kong football festival. Despite suffering a loss to Inter Milan in a penalty shootout, Semenyo showed flashes of brilliance and set up City’s goal with a fine assist.
Tea as a Way to Focus
Semenyo is also a global brand ambassador for Ahmad Tea. This past Sunday, he took part in their ‘Preparation is Everything’ campaign where Semenyo and guests were given the unique chance to experience and sample Ahmad Tea’s renowned black and herbal tea blends.
Senior Tea Taster Dominic Marriott led this masterclass session as a whole array of flavours were on display to try and sample.
Antoine Semenyo, speaking at Ahmad Tea’s Preparation is Everything event in Hong Kong, commented about his career and how his self-belief and trust in God, propelled him forward.
“I have always dreamt big as a kid, and I have always wanted to show what I could do, and a lot of people used to say that I couldn’t do it. I always believed in what I could do, and I always wanted to prove people wrong, so I always dreamt big and maybe not as big as this, but I am grateful to God that I am here. I am taking all the opportunities.”
Semenyo also praised Hong Kong’s growing position as a sports hub.
“I have seen a lot of teams come here on tour every pre-season and they have always said good things, so when they said that we (Manchester City) were coming, I always wanted to come here first of all.
This is a great opportunity to explore the city as much as I can, and yes, it has been amazing, and the stadium was amazing yesterday; where we have been training, and the hospitality has been amazing. Nothing but good words to say!”
The London-born Ghana international stressed that to make it to the top, a person has to keep going, no matter what the obstacles and challenges.
“Always believe in yourself. That is key; if you doubt yourself, then you are going the wrong way. I think for me, I have always believed in myself even when people have said no. When people say no, it does not mean you do not believe in yourself. Always 100% believe in yourself and pray. No matter what, you will always get there, no matter what it takes!”
On fire on the field whilst calm and serene off the pitch, Semenyo continues to inspire and motivate with his unique journey to the top.
Antoine Semenyo is a global ambassador for Ahmad Tea and was speaking at the brand’s Preparation is Everything event in Hong Kong, highlighting the importance of preparation, consistency and craftsmanship.
For more information, go to: www.ahmadtea.com.
