Eniola Bolaji Extends Unbeaten Streak with Spanish Para Badminton Gold

Paralympic bronze medalist EDniola Bolaji continues to dominate the global para badminton scene, securing yet another gold medal in the women’s singles SL3 category at the 2025 Spanish Para Badminton International II in Vitoria. This victory extends her remarkable unbeaten run to 11 consecutive international tournaments, reinforcing her reputation as one of the world’s most formidable para badminton players.

Bolaji’s path to gold was nothing short of commanding, as she dismantled every opponent in her way without dropping a single set. She opened her campaign with a resounding 2-0 (21-15, 21-2) victory over Brazil’s Kauana Michelson Beckenka before sweeping past France’s Caroline Bergeron 2-0 (21-7, 21-8) in the group stage. Her dominance continued into the knockout rounds, where she overpowered Australia’s Celine Vinot in the quarterfinals, securing a 2-0 (21-8, 21-12) win. In the semifinals, she delivered another masterclass performance, dispatching India’s Neeraj 2-0 (21-12, 21-6) to set up a final showdown against Ukraine’s Oksana Kozyba.

In the final, Bolaji showcased her relentless skill and precision, defeating Kozyba in straight sets, 2-0 (21-15, 21-15), to claim yet another prestigious title. Her latest triumph underscores her dominance and further cements Nigeria’s rising influence in the sport.

Eniola Bolaji with her gold medal

President of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria, Francis Orbih, praised Bolaji’s achievement, emphasizing its significance not just for her but for the development of para badminton in the country. He highlighted that this victory marks her second gold medal in just two months, a testament to her dedication and consistency at the highest level. He also reaffirmed the Federation’s commitment to investing in Bolaji and other para badminton athletes to ensure sustained growth and success on the international stage.

Bolaji led a strong five-member Nigerian contingent to the tournament in Vitoria, which included Okoro Chinyere Lucky, Chukwuemeka Ijeoma Gift, Eze Chukwuebuka Sunday, and Nnanna Chigozie Jeremiah. While each athlete competed in their respective singles categories, Bolaji’s victory stood out as a shining example of the potential within Nigerian para sports.

Following their campaign in Vitoria, Bolaji, along with Jeremiah and Eze, will proceed to Toledo, Madrid, to compete in the highly competitive Spanish International Level 1 Para Badminton Championship from March 12 to 16. This tournament presents another opportunity for Nigerian athletes to showcase their talents on a bigger stage and further solidify their presence in international para badminton.

Orbih also acknowledged the role of the National Sports Commission in supporting the Federation’s efforts, stating that their intervention has been crucial in enabling Nigerian athletes to compete at elite levels. He expressed optimism that with continued investment and backing, more Nigerian players will secure qualification for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics and Paralympics.

With yet another gold medal added to her collection, Bolaji’s journey is far from over. Her dominance serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes and a statement of intent as she continues to rewrite the history of Nigerian para badminton.