Mariam Eniola Bolaji made history for Nigeria and Africa when she defeated Yuan Haoying 21-12 21-16 at the Isa Sports City in Manama, Bahrain on Friday.
With that triumph, the Paris 2024 Paralympic bronze medallist became the first African to reach a BWF Para Badminton World Championships final. Egypt’s Yasmina Eissa – who competes in SH6 women’s doubles alongside American Jayci Simon – later followed her into the history books.
“This is a huge moment for me and my family. I’m very happy,” she said.
For Bolaji, the journey to this moment began in heartbreak. At the last World Championships in Pattaya, Thailand , she fell in the quarterfinals.
“I was so sad,” she reflected.
She went home to Nigeria and trained harder than ever– devoting her time, energy and focus to one goal: the World Championships final.
The results followed – last year, she won seven of the eight tournaments she competed at. Each victory lifted her confidence – and her ranking – until she rose to world No.2.
Now, she prepares to face Japan’s Shino Kawai in their first career meeting for the world title. But something has changed.
“There is no pressure anymore,” she said with a quiet smile. “I’m a calmer person now. I just want to go out and play.”
WHAT OTHERS SAID
“Initially I didn’t quite master the court and my opponent’s strategy. When I began to read his attacking patterns, I guarded the front court better and took control.” – Muh Al Imran, who stunned top seed Nitesh Kumar 12-21 21-17 21-11 to make the final on debut
“To be honest, losing last time helped me a lot. It made me focus on this title because I miss being world champion so much. I’m always trying to push myself a little more every single day to be the best.” – Lucas Mazur on returning to the final after his semifinal heartbreak two years ago.
“We’ve dreamed of this moment since we started playing together in 2023. To finally achieve it is huge. And it’s come on my birthday so I couldn’t ask for a better present.” – Simon on qualifying for the final
“I’m truly honoured. I hope I get to raise my flag at the finals. But whatever happens, I’m just glad Egypt’s name has finally made it onto that podium at a World Championship.” – Eissa
Simon and Eissa celebrating their special moment.
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