Bolaji Wins in Spanish Para Badminton Championship
Mariam Eniola Bolaji, a Para-Badminton sensation, emerged victorious in the women’s singles SL3 category at the recently concluded Spanish Para Badminton International 2024 held in Victoria, Spain.
Ranked 10th globally, Bolaji showcased her prowess by defeating the 6th-ranked player, Oksana Kozyna from Ukraine, in a commanding 2-0 victory (21-13, 21-8) to claim the gold medal during the weekend event.
Bolaji’s path to victory included a dominant performance against Emona Ivanova from Bulgaria, ranked 13th globally, whom she defeated 2-0 (21-4, 21-8) in the semi-finals.
In earlier rounds, Bolaji defeated top-seeded Indian player Mandeep Kaur Mandeep 2-0 (21-10, 21-8) and Victoria Bailey from England 2-0 (21-5, 21-4).
Francis Orbih, President of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria, expressed immense pleasure at Bolaji’s latest triumph. He praised her consistent excellence, noting her significant impact in the world of Para Badminton.
Orbih remarked, “I am thrilled with Mariam Eniola Bolaji’s victory, her second at the Spanish International since her debut in 2021. Bolaji’s win in 2024, especially against the seasoned Oksana Kozyna, is a testament to her remarkable talent and dedication. She has proven herself to be a formidable force on the global stage.”
He further emphasized the Federation’s commitment to supporting Bolaji’s journey, particularly as the Paris Paralympic Games draw near.
Orbih expressed confidence in Bolaji’s potential to secure a medal for Nigeria, highlighting her as a promising athlete to watch.
