Paula Badosa, inspired by Aryna Sabalenka’s unwavering support, upset world No. 3 Coco Gauff 7-5, 6-4 in a high-stakes clash, securing her best-ever Grand Slam result and a first Top 10 win at this stage.
The 25-year-old Spaniard’s emotional victory marked a significant step in her comeback after a tumultuous year.
Badosa, who had been forced to contemplate retirement due to a back injury in 2024, expressed her joy after the match: “This is a dream come true,” she said, reflecting on the journey that brought her to the Australian Open quarterfinals.
Showcasing aggressive baseline play, Badosa broke Gauff’s serve four times and held firm when the American, riding a nine-match winning streak, threatened a comeback in the second set. Gauff, burdened by 41 unforced errors, could not find her rhythm and faltered in her bid for back-to-back major titles.
“I’m super proud of the level I gave today. Coco, at the beginning, was playing insane tennis. But I’ve been through a lot, and I think I’m a better, more mature player now,” Badosa remarked.
The victory is a testament to Badosa’s resilience after a season marred by injury. Following successful cortisone treatments, she rebounded with remarkable form, clinching the WTA’s Comeback Player of the Year award. Badosa’s recent triumphs include titles in Washington, DC, and a semifinal run in Cincinnati, propelling her back into the upper echelons of tennis.
Now projected to rise to No. 9 in the WTA rankings, Badosa is poised for a potential breakthrough at this major. She will face the winner of the quarterfinal match between world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka and Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova.
Sabalenka, a close friend and source of support for Badosa, had comforted the Spaniard after a painful retirement in Stuttgart last spring. “She told me, ‘Don’t worry, you’ll be back in the Top 10 soon.’ It’s incredible to see that come true,” Badosa reflected.
As for Gauff, the 2023 US Open champion will look to adjust her game with new coach Matt Daly, aiming for a stronger finish to her season after a disappointing loss in Melbourne.
For Badosa, the Australian Open represents more than just a tournament, it’s a powerful symbol of her determination and a stepping stone toward her first Grand Slam title.
