Ons Jabeur Discusses Friendship with Paula Badosa and Aryna Sabalenka: We Enjoy Our Gossip Sessions

Ons Jabeur has opened up about her close friendships with Paula Badosa and Aryna Sabalenka, playfully sharing that the trio enjoys gossiping together off the court.

Known as one of the friendliest players on the WTA Tour, the Tunisian star’s warm personality is well recognized, especially when speaking about her relationships with fellow competitors.

Badosa and Sabalenka share a well-documented bond, often referring to each other as “soulmates” within the tennis community.

During a recent appearance on the Nothing Major podcast, hosted by tennis icons John Isner, Sam Querrey, Jack Sock, and Steve Johnson, Jabeur commented, “I’m friends with Paula and Aryna mostly. We don’t hang out a lot—I probably spend more time with Paula—but we discuss various topics, share opinions on the tour, and of course, we gossip (laughs).”

Jabeur’s lighthearted spirit extends to her game, particularly through her skillful use of the drop shot. She believes her approach has influenced other players, including rising star Carlos Alcaraz.

“He has a really good drop shot because he uses it tactically—he doesn’t always know when he’s going to use it. But I like to think he got inspired by me or something, I don’t know,” Jabeur said with a smile.

Isner jokingly suggested that Alcaraz, a four-time Grand Slam champion, should credit Jabeur for influencing his play. Jabeur quickly responded with a playful request for a share of Alcaraz’s Grand Slam titles.

Currently competing at the Abu Dhabi Open, Jabeur has secured consecutive straight-set victories against Jelena Ostapenko and Wakana Sonobe. She is set to face Elena Rybakina in the quarterfinals.