Tennis fans are in for a treat as the real-life couple of Spaniard Paula Badosa, 26, and Greek player Stefanos Tsitsipas, 25, gear up to unite on the court. Their anticipated appearance in mixed doubles at a World Tennis League event in Abu Dhabi next week marks their second attempt to collaborate, following an unfortunate back issue that hindered Badosa’s participation at Wimbledon earlier.
Fondly referred to as “Tsitsidosa,” the pair commenced their relationship in the Spring of 2023, openly expressing their affection on social media, eliciting mixed reactions from fans. Some speculate Tsitsipas’s performance dip in 2023, failing to secure a Grand Slam title post their relationship, contrasting with his finalist standing at the 2023 Australian Open before they began dating. Despite his consistent status as one of ATP Tour’s top male players, a Grand Slam victory has eluded Tsitsipas so far.
Acknowledging the demanding nature of professional tennis, fans express joy at the couple’s companionship, appreciating their shared happiness amidst the grueling schedule. The prospect of witnessing their on-court chemistry, reflecting their well-documented off-court relationship, sparks curiosity among enthusiasts.
Uncertainty looms over the outcome, primarily due to Badosa’s prior injuries. Hopes are pinned on seeing her move effortlessly across the court and exhibit stellar ball striking. Positioned at 63rd in the 2024 Australian Open entry list, these mixed doubles event serves as valuable match practice before her Melbourne campaign next month.
Amidst the chatter surrounding notable comebacks of high-profile female players like Naomi Osaka and Angelique Kerber in 2024, Badosa’s potential resurgence seems overlooked. Her career peak of World No. 2 in April 2022 often fades from current discussions.
In contrast, Tsitsipas boasts recent doubles experience partnering with his brother, Petros, in 2023, and teaming up with fellow Greek Maria Sakkari at the 2020 Olympics, where they reached the quarterfinals.
The upcoming mixed doubles event not only excites fans to witness the Tsitsipas-Badosa partnership but also serves as a platform for Badosa’s pre-Australian Open preparations. As the tennis world eagerly awaits their on-court collaboration, all eyes are set on this intriguing duo to unfold their shared prowess in Abu Dhabi.
Stefanos Tsitsipas in 2023
Ranked no.6, Stefanos played his last match on the 14th of November when he had to retire when playing against world no.8 Holger Rune in the round robin and the scoreline was 2-1 .
Until now, during this year Stefanos achieved an overall 51-24 record. Tsitsipas clinched 1 title in Los Cabos. The Greek reached the final at the Australian Open and Barcelona.
Paula Badosa in 2023
Currently ranked no.63, the Spaniard played her last match on the 7th of July when she had to retire when playing against world no.39 Marta Kostyuk in the 2nd round and the scoreline was 6-2 1-0 .
During this season Paula has a 18-9 match record. Paula Badosa’s best result of the current season was reaching the semifinal in Adelaide.
Stefanos Tsitsipas and Paula Badosa |
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