World No. 2 Eniola Bolaji has reinforced her supremacy in the para-badminton SL3 category, securing her second gold medal in as many weeks.
The Paralympic bronze medallist delivered a commanding 2-0 (21-7, 21-10) victory over Turkey’s Halime Yildiz in the women’s final at the Spanish Para-Badminton International 2025 in Toledo, Spain, on Sunday, March 16, 2025.
Bolaji’s journey to the title saw her overpower India’s Sanjana Kumari 2-0 (21-15, 21-8) in the second round before defeating Yildiz again in the third round, this time 2-0 (21-9, 21-12). She continued her dominance in the semifinal with a 2-0 (21-16, 21-4) win over Ukraine’s Oksana Kozyba.
President of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria (BFN), Francis Orbih, hailed Bolaji’s resilience and record-breaking performances, emphasizing that she remains Africa’s most decorated para-badminton player, with 12 international gold medals.
“I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Eniola Bolaji on winning her 12th gold medal in as many international tournaments. Her consistency, resilience, and unwavering dedication to excellence continue to set her apart,” Orbih said.
He added, “Bolaji has made Nigeria proud and stamped her authority in global para-badminton. Her inspiring journey motivates many, and the BFN remains committed to supporting her as she scales even greater heights.”
Orbih also expressed excitement over Nigeria hosting the All African Para-Badminton and Abia International Para-Badminton Championships later this year. He thanked the Abia State Government for agreeing to host the prestigious tournaments, emphasizing the opportunity to showcase Nigeria’s badminton talent.
“This is a proud moment for African para-badminton. Hosting these events in Nigeria will further expose upcoming champions to the world,” he concluded.
Bolaji’s latest triumph comes just a week after her gold medal victory at the 2025 Spanish Para-Badminton International II in Vitoria.
