Para-badminton star Bolaji emerges World No. 1 after Bahrain tourney News

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Para-badminton star Bolaji emerges World No. 1 after Bahrain tourney

By Daily Sports Nigeria on February 18, 2026

Following her impressive outing at the World Para Badminton Championship in Bahrain, Nigeria’s player and Olympic medallist, Eniola Bolaji, has climbed to World No. 1 in the women’s SL3 category in the latest rankings released by the Badminton World Federation on Tuesday, The PUNCH reports.

The multiple national and African champion dethroned Indonesia’s Qonitah Ikhtiar Syakuroh from the top of the rankings.

Bolaji won a silver medal at the 2026 World Para Badminton Championship in Bahrain after losing 2–0 (21–12, 21–17) in the final to Japan’s world No. 7, Shino Kawai, at the New Capital Hall on February 14.

Her rise was further boosted by her triumph at the Egypt International in January, where she successfully defended her title for the second consecutive year.

President of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria, Francis Orbih, described Bolaji’s latest achievement as a landmark moment for Nigeria and Africa, noting that her success reflects deliberate investment and structured support for para-badminton in the country.

“This is the biggest news of the year — Eniola Bolaji claiming the World No. 1 spot following her participation in the 2024 Paralympic Games. She would likely have attained this position earlier if she had competed in more tournaments last year.

“She regained full stability last season and has carried that momentum into this year, already featuring in two major tournaments with outstanding performances.”

Orbih further acknowledged the critical role played by key stakeholders in sustaining the growth of para-badminton in Nigeria.

“This achievement is also a testament to the support and resources committed to para-badminton by the National Sports Commission, the Abia State Government, and GIG Logistics. Their continued backing has created an enabling environment for our athletes to train, compete, and excel on the global stage.”

Source Punch Ng

Posted February 18, 2026