Spanish tennis player reveals her struggles with injuries in 2023 and her aspirations for the new year.
In an interview with 'Gulf News', Paula Badosa reflects on the hardships she endured in 2023 due to multiple injuries and expresses hopefulness for her return to peak performance in 2024. Badosa's primary goal for the upcoming season is to prioritize her health and well-being, as she believes that competing without major injuries is crucial to rebuilding her confidence and reclaiming her spot among the world's best players.
Currently in Abu Dhabi, alongside some of the top tennis players globally, Badosa shared her challenging journey in recent months. She remarked, "It has been an incredibly tough period for me, but I am gradually starting to feel better. The most significant development is that I can finally revel in being on the tennis court again, a simple pleasure I had to forego just a month ago when I couldn't even step onto the court." She added, "I am feeling good and eagerly anticipate the start of the season."
For Badosa, the ability to consistently compete for several months is of utmost importance. Having been absent from the circuit for an extended period, she intends to amass as much playing time as possible, seeking to regain her automatic responses and competitive rhythm. Recognizing the need to proceed cautiously with realistic expectations given her substantial drop in rankings, Badosa is determined to focus on her health. Her ultimate ambition is to compete throughout the entire year without encountering major setbacks, which would significantly bolster her confidence in pursuing her goal of being among the world's best players once again.
The Australian Open, scheduled from January 14th to 28th, will serve as an initial litmus test for Badosa's journey. as it represents the first Grand Slam of the calendar year. This tournament will afford her an opportunity to assess her progress and compete against the world's top players. Badosa remains resolute in her determination to mount a strong comeback and prove her mettle on the court.
In conclusion, Paula Badosa's unwavering aim for 2024 is to prioritize her health and well-being. She acknowledges that sustaining a state free of injuries is fundamental to her success and is committed to investing the necessary effort to achieve her objectives. Equipped with her unwavering determination and positive mindset, Badosa is poised to confront the challenges ahead and stage an impressive return to the elite world of tennis.