Eniola Bolaji, Nigeria’s para-badminton star and world number two, has won her third gold medal of 2025 at the Spanish Para Badminton International in Toledo. She defeated Turkey’s Halime Yildiz 2-0 in the final, adding to her recent gold at the Spanish Para Badminton International II. Bolaji’s achievements are celebrated, and she aims to compete in more tournaments this year.
Eniola Bolaji, Nigeria’s para-badminton star and current world number two, has once again demonstrated her excellence by winning another gold medal at the Spanish Para Badminton International 2025 in Toledo. This victory comes on the heels of her gold win at the 2025 Spanish Para Badminton International II in Vitoria just days prior. The 19-year-old triumphed decisively over Turkey’s Halime Yildiz in the women’s SL3 final, achieving a score of 2-0 (21-7, 21-10), marking her third gold of 2025 and back-to-back titles in Spain in a two-week span.
Bolaji’s path to victory involved a series of impressive performances, beginning with a second-round win against India’s Sanjana Kumari, where she won comfortably with scores of 21-15 and 21-8. She then accomplished another straight-sets victory against Yildiz in the third round with scores of 21-9 and 21-12. In the semi-finals, she showcased her dominance with a convincing win over Ukraine’s Oksana Kozyba, with a score of 2-0 (21-16, 21-4), setting up the final rematch with Yildiz. In the title match, Bolaji overwhelmed Yildiz decisively, securing her gold medal.
Francis Orbih, the president of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria, praised Bolaji’s consistent performance and dedication to her sport. He conveyed his warm congratulations, stating, “I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Eniola Bolaji on her incredible achievement of winning her 12th gold medal in as many international tournaments. This remarkable feat is a testament to her consistency, resilience, and unwavering dedication to excellence. Bolaji has not only made Nigeria proud but has also firmly stamped her authority in the world of para badminton. Her journey continues to inspire many.”
Bolaji aims to participate in additional tournaments within the year, emphasizing her drive and aspiration for further achievements. She expressed her determination, stating, “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 groundbreaking athlete, she is also recognized as the first and only African to medal in badminton at the Olympics or Paralympics, solidifying her legacy as a significant figure in Nigerian sports.
In conclusion, Eniola Bolaji’s recent victories at the Spanish Para Badminton International events underscore her dominance and status in para-badminton. With her remarkable athletic achievements and the support she garners from officials like Francis Orbih, Bolaji continues to inspire the next generation of athletes. Her ambition to engage in more tournaments reflects her commitment to elevating her sport and representing Nigeria on the international stage.
Original Source: www.brila.net
