- Nigeria has won its first medal at the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris, thanks to Mariam Eniola Bolaji
- Bolaji secured the bronze in the Para-Badminton women’s singles SL3 event, defeating Ukraine’s Kozyna Oksana 21-9, 21-9
- At 18 years old, Bolaji has become the first African to reach the semifinals in Para-Badminton at the Paralympics
In a historic moment for Nigeria, the nation has finally secured its first medal at the ongoing 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris, France. This breakthrough came courtesy of Mariam Eniola Bolaji, a para-badminton star hailing from Kwara state.
On Monday, September 2, Bolaji triumphed in the women's singles SL3 event, defeating Ukraine’s Kozyna Oksana with a commanding score of 21-9, 21-9 in the bronze medal match.
Bolaji's achievement brings much needed relief to Nigeria after a series of medal-less appearances at recent global sporting events, including the Olympic Games and the World U-20 Athletics Championship.
The victory is particularly impressive given that Bolaji, who had been eyeing the gold, faced disappointment just a day earlier when she lost 2-0 (16-21, 17-21) to China's Zuxian Xiao in a hard-fought semifinal.
9 facts about Paralympian Mariam Bolaji
1. Rising star in para-badminton: At just 18 years old, Eniola Bolaji has become one of the most exciting young talents in para-badminton, making waves on the international scene with her remarkable performances.
2. Rise in rankings: Bolaji's journey in para-badminton has been nothing short of spectacular. She climbed from No. 17 in January 2024 to the No. 2 spot in the women’s singles SL3 category, marking the highest point in her burgeoning career.
3. Gold medal haul: Despite her young age, Bolaji has already secured numerous gold medals in major international tournaments. Her collection includes victories at prestigious events such as the Spanish Para-Badminton International and the Africa Para-Badminton Championships.
4. Historic debut victory: Bolaji made an unforgettable international debut at the 5th Fazza Dubai Para Badminton International 2023 event, where she defeated World No. 1 Qonitah Ikhtiar Syakuroh, making her a player to watch out for.
5. Fearless competitor: Known for her incredible self-belief and mental fortitude, Bolaji consistently raises her game during crucial matches, no wonder she has secured a medal already at the Paralympics 2024, often defeating more experienced and higher-ranked opponents.
6. Consistent performer: In 2024 alone, she claimed gold in both the Women’s Singles and Doubles at the Egypt Para Badminton International, as well as at the Spanish Para Badminton International I and II.
7. Triumph in the face of adversity: Despite her rapid rise, Bolaji faced challenges in securing her spot for the Paris 2024 Paralympics. She eventually earned her place through a Bipartite Commission Invite, an honour given to para-athletes who couldn’t qualify through traditional means due to special circumstances.
8. Making Oyo proud: Born in Oyo, Ibadan, Bolaji is quickly becoming a source of pride for her state of birth, representing her nation on the global stage with unparalleled success in para-badminton.
9. Dominance in Africa: Bolaji’s success extends across multiple categories at the Africa Para Badminton Championships, where she clinched gold in Women’s Singles, Women’s Doubles, and Mixed Doubles.
Paris 2024: 20 interesting facts about Paralympics games
Previously, TheRadar reported that the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games kicked off in style with a spectacular opening ceremony at the historic Place de la Concorde in Paris.
The opening ceremony featured the introduction of athletes from around the world, each proudly waving the flags of their nations. Team Nigeria was among the nations represented, with Lauritta Onye leading the contingent as the flagbearer.
The Nigerian team comprises 23 athletes competing in athletics, badminton, powerlifting, and table tennis, supported by a dedicated team of seven coaches and five medical professionals.
