Nigeria sensational para badminton player, Eniola Bolaji has dedicated her latest world ranking to her Late Coach, Bello Oyebanji who lost his life in a ghastly accident last April.
According to the World Para Badminton rankings, Eniola Bolaji is currently World number 8 and Africa number 1 in the Standing Level (SL) 3.
An elated National Champion told www.aclsports.com that it is a dream come through to break into the top 10 players rankings in the world.
She explained that it would not have been possible if her former coach, Late Bello Oyebanji did not introduce her to Para Badminton 5 years ago.
Bolaji said, “I am excited and the same time very surprised to be ranked world number 8 in the Standing Level (SL) 3. The only major international I attended was the 2021 Spanish Para Badminton International Championship where I won gold.
“The Spanish International must have also influenced the African ranking because I am now Africa number 1. I will work hard in 2022 to retain my spot in Africa and the world.”
“My success today can be attributed to my late coach, Bello Oyebanji. When he was alive, he taught me the basics of badminton and trained me both day and night. I wish he could be alive to witness all I have accomplished in the beautiful game”, she told www.aclsports.com
The fast rising badminton star appealed to corporate sponsors and well individuals to support her in 2022 in order to accomplish more successes.
She said, “With better facilities and equipment, I know I can become world number 1 in the nearest future. All I need are good sponsors to send me to continental and international championships as well as better badminton facilities.”
Eniola Bolaji made history as the first African athlete to win gold medal at the 2021 Spanish Para Badminton International Championship last May.
Meanwhile, Eniola Bolaji’s former coach, Oyebanji died in an accident prior to the championship while trying to secure his visa for the tournament.
