Paula Badosa has advanced to her first-ever Grand Slam semifinals at the 2025 Australian Open after defeating Coco Gauff. This marks a major comeback for Badosa, who has battled severe back problems that once saw her drop out of the top 100. Now rejuvenated and set to return to the top 10, Paula is determined to keep her momentum going as she aims for the title. In a press conference, the Spanish star spoke about her newfound consistency, a far cry from her time as world number 2.
Close to Retirement Due to Back Problems
“There was a moment last year when I was very close to retiring because I didn’t feel like I could compete at the level I wanted. My back wasn’t cooperating, and I couldn’t find a solution. But I wanted to give it one last chance, finish the year, and see what happened. And well, here I am. I’m incredibly proud of what my team and I have overcome, especially mentally, fighting through all of this.”
All or Nothing for the Title
“I won’t feel truly free until I win the tournament. That’s just who I am—my personality, my character. Maybe today I had slightly lower expectations, but I still felt pressure because I desperately wanted to win. In the semifinals, I don’t care who my opponent is—I’ll step on the court and fight to win. That’s a part of me. I believe when I reach the later rounds, my level rises, and I’ll give 100% and leave everything on the court.”
Back Where She Belongs
“Absolutely. Since I returned here in Australia last year, I’ve had the goal of being the comeback of the year, and I achieved that. Coming into this year, I said I wanted to be one of the best players in the world and prove it through consistency. That’s my goal for 2025.”
Facing Sabalenka in the Semifinals
“Aryna has been proving why she’s the world number 1—she’s very consistent, very aggressive, and an intense player. She’s always tough to face. I played her here last year, but I wasn’t in the form I am now. If it’s Aryna, I’m really looking forward to that match.”
Growth Since Being World Number 2
“It’s completely different now. When I was world number 2, everything happened so fast. I didn’t handle the expectations well—I was scared of playing against lower-ranked players, thinking, ‘What if I lose? What will people say?’ I thought about that a lot. Now, I don’t care. I’ve learned to accept it, and that’s reflected in my level. You can lose to anyone, and you can beat anyone. That realization has helped me play more freely, which is when I play my best tennis. I’m also better at managing my opponent’s strong moments and finding solutions. In the end, it all comes down to maturity.”
