Ese Brume’s coach, Kayode Yaya, has revealed that the Nigerian long jumper ‘miraculously’ survived a car crash in the United States last November, suffering multiple injuries that nearly ended her season.
In an exclusive interview with Brila.net, Yaya explained that the crash occurred while Brume was returning from the airport with a friend when another vehicle struck her car from behind, sending it out of control before it collided with a sidewalk and nearly plunged off a bridge.
“The vehicle was totally destroyed beyond recognition. By God’s grace, she survived,” Yaya told Brila.net.
Further medical checks revealed the extent of the accident’s impact on her body, including fractures, muscle tears, and internal complications.
She also suffered trauma that left her unable to train for several months. Attempts to resume workouts in March exposed further injuries, forcing her to undergo additional treatment before gradually rebuilding her fitness.
Despite his advice not to compete, Yaya confirmed that Brume insisted on participating in the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, where she gained entry through her continental title and world ranking.
“I told her she had nothing to prove, but she said she needed to clear the fear out of her mind and get back into the game. It was more about her mental recovery than performance,” he said.
Also read: African Games: Gold for Ese Brume, Ochonogor Makes Big Leap
The coach described her appearance in Tokyo as a significant step in her rehabilitation, stressing that competing at all was an achievement under the circumstances.
Yaya also urged greater support for Nigerian athletes, noting that many face difficulties without adequate encouragement.
