The recently concluded Egypt Para Badminton International 2024 marked a historic chapter for para badminton in Africa, standing as the continent’s second Para international event after Uganda. With the participation of 25 countries and over 130 players, this global gathering witnessed outstanding performances and showcased the growing prowess of African athletes. The tournament holds special significance as a stepping stone in the journey toward the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games.
Mariam Eniola Bolaji’s Remarkable Victory
Nigeria’s Mariam Eniola Bolaji emerged triumphant in the Women SL 3 Singles Final, showcasing exceptional skill and determination. Bolaji secured the title by defeating Brazil’s Adriane Spinetti Avila with a convincing score of 21-5, 21-6. After the match, Bolaji expressed her joy and highlighted the importance of every match as the Paralympic Games approach, stating, “I am extremely happy to win this title as we are approaching the Paris Paralympic Games and every match counts. I hope to continue on this winning streak for my next competitions”.
Yasmina Eissa’s Gold Medal Win
Egypt’s Yasmina Eissa claimed victory in the Women Singles SH6 category, defeating Nina Kozlova from Ukraine with a scoreline of 21-11, 21-14. Eissa, speaking to BCA TV, shared her happiness and dedication, saying, “I am very happy to bring a Gold medal for my country and Africa as it means a lot to me. I hope to keep the momentum and achieve more in the near future.”
Nigerian Duo’s Gold in Women’s Doubles SL3
The Women’s Doubles SL3 Category witnessed a thrilling final where Mariam Eniola Bolaji and Chinyere Okoro from Nigeria secured the gold medal. In a closely contested match against Rosa Efomo De Marco and Diana Lizeth Leon Sierra from Italy and Colombia, the Nigerian duo emerged victorious with a score of 21-19, 16-21, 21-13.
Chigozie Jeremiah Nnanna’s Resilience
Chigozie Jeremiah Nnanna, representing Nigeria in the Men’s Single Category SL4, showcased remarkable resilience throughout the tournament. Despite a closely contested final against Germany’s Marcel Adam (21-19, 13-21, 21-15), Nnanna reflected positively, stating, “I am very happy to have reached the finals even though I lost. This will help me train harder on my weaknesses and come back stronger.”
The President of the Egyptian Badminton Federation Dr Ali expressed himself to BCA TV:
“We are very happy to have concluded this tournament and with success. I wish to thank my team and all the participants to have made the move to Cairo for this competition and I wish all players best of luck in their qualifications for the upcoming Paris Paralympic Games 2024”.
The Egypt Para Badminton International 2024 not only celebrated the incredible talent of para-badminton athletes worldwide but also elevated the presence of African players on the global stage. As these athletes continue to shine, their achievements become a beacon for inclusivity and excellence in para-badminton. The tournament’s role in the BWF qualification process adds an extra layer of significance, fueling the aspirations of athletes eyeing the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. The legacy of this event resonates beyond the courts, inspiring a new era for para-badminton in Africa and around the world.
