Nigerian para-badminton star Eniola Bolaji has made history, clinching her 12th gold medal in many international tournaments.
The world number two and Paralympic bronze medallist triumphed over Turkey’s Halime Yildiz 2-0 (21-7, 21-10) in the women’s final at the Spanish Para Badminton International 2025 in Toledo, Spain.
Bolaji’s impressive campaign saw her defeat India’s Sanjana Kumari 2-0 (21-15, 21-8) in the second round, followed by a 2-0 (21-9, 21-12) win over Turkey’s Halime Yildiz in the third round. She then dispatched Ukraine’s Oksana Kozyba 2-0 (21-16, 21-4) in the semifinal.
The President of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria, Francis Orbih, praised Bolaji’s remarkable achievement, saying, “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.”
Orbih highlighted Bolaji’s status as the only African player to win 12 gold medals in all internationals played, noting that she has “not only made Nigeria proud but has also firmly stamped her authority in the world of para-badminton.”
The Nigerian badminton supremo also expressed excitement about the upcoming All African Para Badminton/Abia international Para badminton Championships this year, which will provide an opportunity to showcase the country’s rich badminton culture.
“It gives me joy that the giants of Africa in Para badminton will be hosting an international championship and the African championship in Nigeria. It will give us an avenue to further expose other potential champions to the world,” Persecondnews quotes Orbih as saying.
Leave a comment