Paralympic bronze medallist Eniola Bolaji further etched her name in the history books as she clinched gold at the Egypt Para Badminton International 2025, Afrosport reports.
Bolaji dominated Sweden’s Hillevi Salomonsson 2-0 (21-1, 21-2) in the women’s SL3 final on Sunday, to win her first title of the year in excellent fashion.
It’s back-to-back celebration for my country and myself…🤍💨
Again, I was out with a goal to bring honour to my country and I am glad I recorded another milestones. I use this moms to encourage the youth of country to “Never Give Up”.
Nigeria I hail thee! pic.twitter.com/A0RdPjHLts
— Official Bolaji Eniola (@BolajiEniola9) January 26, 2025
The Nigerian, who became the first African to win a paralympic medal in badminton at the Paris 2024 Games, was in inspired form in Egypt as she breezed through her opponents.
Bolaji overcame Shahinda Mohamed (21-7, 21-2), Basma Nabil-Fawzy (21-6, 21-4), and Elizabeth Nabwire (21-2, 21-4) with straight-set victories in earlier rounds.
Her feat in Egypt cements her as one of the leading Para Badminton players in the world, as she remained undefeated in all her 10 games over the last two years as revealed by the Badminton World Federation (BWF).
Francis Orbih, President of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria, celebrated Bolaji’s achievement, highlighting its significance for Nigerian sports.
“Eniola Bolaji’s gold medal at the Egypt International 2025 is a testament to her unparalleled talent and dedication,” said Orbih.
“As the first and only African medalist in Para Badminton at the Paris 2024 Paralympics, she has once again brought immense pride to Nigeria. Winning 10 consecutive international tournaments is no small feat; she is a national treasure and a global icon.”
Looking ahead, Orbih reaffirmed the Federation’s commitment to hosting world-class events, including the Para Badminton International Championship and the All-Africa para badminton championship in Abia State this October.
“The Badminton Federation of Nigeria, in collaboration with Abia State, is determined to deliver a successful Para Badminton International Championship and the All-African Para Badminton Championship. We are fully committed to meeting and exceeding international standards,” Orbih concluded.
