One of the most exhilarating match-ups of the year was Sabalenka vs. Badosa. The Porsche Tennis Grand Prix is one of the top tournaments in the worldwide circuit for tennis players. Spectators come here from all over the world to see the top-ranked tennis players face off against one another to progress to the coveted final. But nobody could predict how this tense match-up was going to end.
Sabalenka Beat Her Opponent After a Tough Match
Aryna Sabalenka on Paula Badosa’s retirement from their match in Stuttgart:
“I’m about to cry to be honest. I feel so bad for her. I love this girl… I don’t have any emotions right now. I’m not happy. I’m not sad. I just want to say thank you to the people who stayed til the… pic.twitter.com/LNsE3i84LB
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) April 17, 2024
Sabalenka walked away with the victory against Badosa after winning 7-6, 4-6, and 3-3. Even though she must be happy for reaching the final match, she seemed a bit somber and understanding of her opponent’s injury post-match during the press conference.
I don’t have any emotions right now. I’m not happy, I’m not sad. I just want to thank the people who stayed to the end of the match.
Part of her melancholy attitude could be partially due to losing her partner just a few months ago after he took his life prior to the Miami Open.
And another reason for the lack of celebration is because Sabalenka realizes that Badosa is one of her best friends in the league, and her life. She has called Badosa her ‘tennis soulmate‘ and understands her struggles with mental and physical health throughout her career.
Badosa Has Struggled With Injuries This Year
Unfortunately, this isn’t the first time this year that Badosa has had to pull out of a match or forfeit due to injury. The talented Spanish tennis player has dealt with a lingering back injury for over a year, causing her pain during her forehand and backhand swing.
Right before the Australian Open in 2023, Badosa suffered an injury that ruled her out of the Brisbane tournament. Furthermore, this year in 2024, she was injured only weeks before the Madrid Open in her home country. She can’t seem to catch a break before a major tournament.
Despite slightly overcoming her nagging back injury, her left quad had been giving her grief for multiple weeks prior to playing Sabalenka last week. Commentators, coaches, and spectators all noticed that her technique was perfect, but her body was struggling to keep up with the pace of the ball.
Overall, the Porsche Tennis Grand Prix delivered on all fronts. Tune in to see if the #2 seed can continue her win streak and earn another singles title. Can she become another GOAT of women’s tennis?
About the Author
Emma is an athlete and sports fan who currently plays professional soccer. Growing up, she reached a high level in track and field, distance running, and soccer on both club and university teams.
