Eniola Bolaji, Nigeria’s para-badminton star, won gold in two back-to-back tournaments in Spain, reinforcing her status as a leading player in the SL3 category. At 19, she secured her third gold of the year with a decisive win over Turkey’s Halime Yildiz. The Badminton Federation of Nigeria praised her dedication, while Bolaji aims for even greater heights in 2025, having made history as the first African to win an Olympic or Paralympic medal in badminton.
Nigeria’s Eniola Bolaji, a para-badminton star, has once again showcased her elite skills by winning gold at both the 2025 Spanish Para Badminton International II in Vitoria and the Spanish Para Badminton International 2025 in Toledo. The young athlete, ranked world number two, defeated Turkey’s Halime Yildiz in the women’s SL3 final with a decisive 2-0 victory (21-7, 21-10), which marks her third gold medal this year.
Bolaji started her victorious campaign with a strong second-round win against Sanjana Kumari from India, securing her spot with a score of 21-15, 21-8. She then continued her impressive form with a straightforward victory over Yildiz in the third round, culminating in a semi-final win against Ukraine’s Oksana Kozyba (21-16, 21-4). This success set her up for the final where she decisively defeated Yildiz, further cementing her position in the SL3 category.
Francis Orbih, the president of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria, praised Bolaji for her exceptional achievements, stating, “I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Eniola Bolaji on her incredible achievement of winning her 12th gold medal in as many international tournaments.” He emphasized her dedication, consistency, and the pride she brings to Nigeria, highlighting her inspiring journey in para-badminton.
Bolaji expressed her ambition for 2025, indicating her intention to participate in more tournaments this year. In a post on X, she remarked, “Last year, I promised myself to do more than I had ever done. The time is now, let us rise and cheerfully bring the victory home.” As a trailblazer, Bolaji holds the distinction of being the first and only African to win a badminton medal at the Olympics or Paralympics.
Eniola Bolaji’s recent victories in Spain highlight her exceptional skills and dominance in para-badminton, as she continues to collect gold medals and inspire others. With strong support from Nigeria’s Badminton Federation and a personal commitment to achieving more, Bolaji is poised for further success in 2025. Her achievements are a testament to her dedication, resilience, and role as a pioneer for African badminton.
Original Source: www.brila.net
