Nigeria’s Eniola Bolaji Withdraws from Indonesia Final, Clinches Silver After Injury Setback

Nigeria’s para badminton sensation, Eniola Bolaji, was forced to withdraw from the POLYTRON Indonesia Para Badminton International 2025 final in Solo, Indonesia, on Sunday, conceding the match to world number one Syakuroh Ikhtiar after sustaining an injury in the first set.

Bolaji, who was competing in her sixth final of the year, appeared set to challenge for another gold before retiring with the scores at 20–16 in favour of her Indonesian opponent. The world number two later confirmed via her X (formerly Twitter) account that the withdrawal was due to “unforeseen circumstances,” suggesting an injury concern.

“After giving my all, I had to retire from the final match. It wasn’t an easy decision, but sometimes our bodies remind us that we’re only human,” she wrote. “I truly appreciate the love, encouragement, and support from everyone. I’m praying for a quick recovery and can’t wait to return stronger and more focused. The journey continues, and the best is yet to come.”

Despite the setback, the 20-year-old still secured a silver medal, adding to her remarkable run of achievements this season. Bolaji made history in Paris 2024 as the first African to win a badminton medal at the Olympics or Paralympics, earning a bronze after defeating Ukraine’s Oksana Kozyna 2–0 (21–9, 21–9).

Her 2025 season has been equally impressive, with gold medal wins at the Spanish Para Badminton International II (Vitoria), Spanish Para Badminton International (Toledo), British and Irish Para Badminton International (Cardiff), and All-Africa Para Badminton Championships (Abia State), as well as the First Abia International Para Badminton Championships.

In recognition of her outstanding performance and contributions to the sport, Bolaji was honoured with the 2024 Africa Women in Badminton Award, celebrating her exceptional journey and trailblazing achievements in para badminton.