Let’s face it, there’s no greater feeling than a compatriot praising their fellow countryman. That’s what Paula Badosa has done for Carlos Alcaraz. The Spaniards have been ruling the circuit lately with Badosa catching up to speed after enduring an injury-marred phase. With both players eying a commendable career – Alcaraz already shaking up competitors’ confidence, the WTA star showered high praise on her countryman.

The Spanish sensation commenced the Asian hardcourt swing at the China Open. Unstoppable as she has been, clinching the Citi Open trophy and later finishing as a quarterfinalist at the US Open, Badosa outfoxed contenders en route to the last four. She locked horns with home favorite Zhang Shuai in the QF. Despite facing resistance in the showdown’s later stages, Badosa maintained her resilience to conclude the Chinese star’s run in straight sets, 6-1, 7-6(4). After captivating the Chinese crowd, the 26-year-old had a fangirl while expressing her admiration for Alcaraz – a day after his China Open glory.

In an on-court interview, Badosa was queried about her compatriot’s triumphant run in the event. The World No. 2 downed arch-rival Jannik Sinner in the summit clash on Wednesday, October 2, lifting his third ATP crown for the season. Badosa stated that constantly defining boundaries is why she looks up to Alcaraz. The 26-year-old also mentioned spectating the four-time GS champion’s final encounter… all the while heaping praise on his talents – and bringing glory to their nation.

She said, “I’m inspired by Carlos. He’s great, on and off court. He’s an amazing person, an amazing player. I was watching the whole match yesterday. I was cheering for him. He makes all the country proud and, honestly, I’m a big fan of him.”

Moreover, Badosa came to her countryman’s rescue at Flushing Meadows. After shocking fans with a premature exit at the New York Slam, the WTA sensation hit back at naysayers for criticizing the young talent.

Paula Badosa shook after criticism of Carlos Alcaraz aired following early US Open exit

Spanish superstar Carlos Alcaraz has enjoyed a stellar season. Naturally, lifting the French Open and Wimbledon does that. However, his performance at the US Open was hardly expected by anyone. Shattered after his Paris Olympics heartbreak against Novak Djokovic, the Spaniard visibly lost his momentum. As a result, he faced a shock second-round exit in New York. Later, critics took to social media to throw shade at the young talent. This wasn’t welcomed by Paula Badosa.

Speaking in a post-match presser in New York, the former World No. 2 expressed the criticism was unwarranted. “These criticisms surprise me so much because everyone is human, everyone can lose in any round. Reading that makes me feel bad but I know that it is part of the job and that is what it is. But we should wave to Carlitos every day.”

Next up, Badosa will square off against Coco Gauff in the last four on Saturday, October 5. Moving an inch closer to the title, both players will aim to produce straight nitro and with it, book their place in the summit clash.