Nigeria’s Mariam Bolaji Strikes Gold at Spanish Para Badminton International 2024
Nigerian para badminton player Mariam Bolaji has made history by winning a gold medal at the Spanish Para Badminton International 2024 in Toledo, Spain. She defeated Mandeep Kaur from India, who is ranked fifth in the world, in straight sets (21-17, 21-17). Consequently, this victory marks her as undefeated in two consecutive Spanish Internationals.
Bolaji displayed exceptional skill and determination throughout the tournament. Initially, she began her victorious campaign by defeating France’s Coraline Bergeron (21-9, 21-17). Following this, her success continued against India’s Parul Dalsukhbhai Parmer (21-9, 21-7). In a pivotal match, she faced and overcame world number four, Manasi Girishchandra Joshi, with scores of 22-20 and 21-10. As a result, this win secured her place in the semi-finals.
In the semi-finals, Bolaji encountered the tournament’s top seed, Halime Yildiz from Turkey, who is the world number three. Demonstrating remarkable resilience, she won (21-16, 21-8) and advanced to the final where she clinched the gold medal.
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Francis Orbih, President of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria, praised Bolaji’s performance. He stated, “Mariam has proven her consistency and dedication. Furthermore, her hard work and talent have rightly earned her this success, and we are incredibly proud.”
Additionally, Orbih emphasized the need for more support for para badminton athletes in Nigeria. He highlighted that such achievements are crucial for the sport’s growth. Moreover, he expressed confidence in Bolaji’s potential to excel at the upcoming Paralympic Games in Paris.
Ultimately, Mariam Bolaji’s victory is not just a personal triumph but a monumental achievement for Nigerian sports. It showcases the potential of Nigerian athletes on the global stage. Indeed, her success is a testament to what can be achieved with perseverance, support, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.