In a heartfelt conversation, Paula Badosa opened up about the emotional challenge of facing her best friend Aryna Sabalenka on the tennis court in Miami. Sabalenka recently suffered the loss of her boyfriend, casting a shadow over her participation in the tournament.
Speaking about her close relationship with Sabalenka, Badosa conveyed the depth of their friendship and the support she has been providing during this difficult time. “She’s one of my best friends. Yesterday I spoke with her a lot of time. This morning the same,” Badosa shared, highlighting her commitment to being there for Sabalenka amidst her grief.
Acknowledging the discomfort of competing against her best friend under such circumstances, Badosa expressed her reluctance to delve further into the matter out of respect for Sabalenka’s privacy. “At the same point playing against her, it’s also uncomfortable… She’s my best friend and I promised that. I’m going to stay like this,” she affirmed.
Badosa’s words offer a glimpse into the complexities of sportsmanship and friendship, demonstrating the empathy and solidarity that exists among athletes in times of personal struggle. As Sabalenka navigates her grief, she can find solace in the unwavering support of her dear friend Badosa, both on and off the court.
Aryna Sabalenka in 2024
LWWWWLWWWW Ranked no.2, Sabalenka played her last match on the 13th of March when she surrendered to world no.20 Emma Navarro 6-3 3-6 6-2 in the 4th round in Indian Wells (draw).
At the moment, during this season Aryna has achieved a compiled 13-3 match record. Aryna clinched 1 title at the Australian Open. Aryna was the runner-up in Brisbane.
Badosa in Miami, ranking, and results in 2024
LWWLWWWLLW Ranked world no.80, Badosa has a 5-5 record in 2024. Badosa is now playing in Miami where she bested Simona Halep 1-6 6-4 6-3.
Paula Badosa will compete against the world no.2 Aryna Sabalenka in the 2nd round. Their current record is 2-2.
Aryna Sabalenka and Paula Badosa fought against each other 4 times. Their current head to head is 2-2. Previously, the last time they played, Aryna Sabalenka won 4-6 6-4 6-4 in the quarter in Stuttgart (Porsche Tennis Grand Prix) in April 2023.
You can watch the highlights in the following video.
