Spanish tennis fans have been dealt a second major blow as Paula Badosa has officially pulled out of the Madrid Open, just a day after Carlos Alcaraz announced his own withdrawal.
Badosa, currently Spain’s top-ranked female player, had been hopeful of competing on home soil but continues to struggle with a persistent back injury. The same issue kept her out of Indian Wells and forced her to retire mid-tournament in Miami after reaching the last 16.
In a message posted to social media, Badosa shared her disappointment:
“Hey everyone, I wanted to let you know that unfortunately I won’t be able to play the Mutua Madrid Open. I’ve tried to do everything possible until the last moment because you know how excited I am to play at home, but it’s a complicated injury. I hope to be 100% soon. Big hug, Paula.”
Badosa’s spot in the tournament has now been filled by fellow Spaniard Cristina Bucsa, who will face Veronika Kudermetova in the opening round.
Her withdrawal follows Alcaraz’s announcement that he is sidelined by groin and hamstring issues that flared up during his Barcelona Open final against Holger Rune. The two-time Grand Slam winner explained he was unable to train during the week and is awaiting further medical tests.
“It hurts me not to be able to play here in Madrid in front of my people, my friends and my family,” Alcaraz said. “I needed to listen to my body and make the right decision.”
Despite the absence of two home favourites, the Madrid Open still promises an exciting lineup. Novak Djokovic, Daniil Medvedev, and Alexander Zverev headline the men’s draw, while Iga Swiatek, Aryna Sabalenka, and Jessica Pegula lead the women’s field. British star Emma Raducanu will face Marta Kostyuk in round two.
