Eniola Bolaji Becomes World No. 1 in Para-Badminton

Eniola Bolaji has been ranked World No. 1 in the women's SL3 category following her impressive silver medal finish at the 2026 World Para-Badminton Championship held in Bahrain. The ranking was released by the Badminton World Federation (BWF) on February 17, 2026.

Bolaji lost the final match 2-0, with scores of 21-12 and 21-17, to Japan's Shino Kawai, who is ranked World No. 7. Bolaji's ascent to the top ranking comes after her successful defense of her title at the African Championship in Egypt in January 2026.

Franci Orbih, President of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria, described Bolaji's achievement as a landmark moment for Nigeria and Africa, highlighting the importance of structured support for para badminton in the country. Despite narrowly missing out on gold, Orbih expressed confidence in Bolaji's potential to win at the upcoming 2024 Paralympic Games.

Bolaji's rise to World No. 1 marks a significant milestone in her career and reflects the support from various stakeholders in Nigeria.