Nigeria’s para-badminton star and world number two, Eniola Bolaji, has claimed another title in Spain, few days after securing gold at the 2025 Spanish Para Badminton International II in Vitoria.
The 19-year-old triumphed at the Spanish Para Badminton International 2025 in Toledo on Sunday, defeating Turkey’s Halime Yildiz in the women’s SL3 final with a dominant 2-0 (21-7, 21-10) victory.
This marks Bolaji’s third gold medal of 2025, reinforcing her dominance in the SL3 category and securing back-to-back titles in Spain within two weeks.
Path to Victory
Bolaji’s campaign began with a commanding second-round win over India’s Sanjana Kumari (21-15, 21-8). She followed up with another straight-sets victory, again against Yildiz, in the third round (21-9, 21-12).
In the semi-final, the Nigerian showcased her superiority with a convincing 2-0 (21-16, 21-4) win over Ukraine’s Oksana Kozyba, setting up a rematch with Yildiz in the final.
She left no doubt in the title match, overwhelming her Turkish opponent 21-7, 21-10 to clinch yet another gold medal on the international stage.
Praise from the Badminton Federation of Nigeria
The president of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria, Francis Orbih, lauded Bolaji’s achievements, highlighting her remarkable consistency and dedication to the sport.
“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, and we at the Badminton Federation of Nigeria remain committed to supporting her as she reaches even greater heights.”
Bolaji’s Ambitions for 2025
Earlier this month, Bolaji hinted at her determination to compete in more tournaments this year as she continues her rapid rise in the sport.
“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,” she stated in an X post.
Bolaji remains a trailblazer for Nigerian badminton, as she is the first and only African to win a badminton medal at the Olympics or Paralympics.
