Aryna Sabalenka served up a storm, toppling Jessica Pegula to claim the US Open title in a powerful display of tennis prowess. This victory marks her third Grand Slam singles title, but it’s clear that Sabalenka’s ambitions extend far beyond this win. As she continues to build her legacy, she has made headlines for another reason: Sabalenka granted a special exemption only for her ‘soulmate’ Paula Badosa.

With her victory over Pegula in the US Open final, Sabalenka has now won two titles at Flushing Meadows. She won the women’s doubles championship in 2019 with Elise Mertens. Now after winning her first singles title at Flushing Meadows, the World No. 2 took to X to share her excitement, and stated, “Can’t believe I did it 🏆 Thank you everyone for you support.”

Paula Badosa responded to Sabalenka’s post with heartfelt congratulations, praising her remarkable achievement. The Spaniard, however, couldn’t resist adding a touch of humor to her response. “Believe it. Crazy achievement! You are such a strong woman! I’m really happy for you! You inspire so many people (also me🥹) ps: please leave a bit for the rest… (specially me😂) Enjoy it enjoy it! You deserve it,” Badosa wrote.

In response to Badosa’s lighthearted remark, Sabalenka showed the same warmth and humor, reinforcing their unique friendship. The Belarusian wrote, “Thank you so much, baby ❤️ ahah I will, but only for you,” indicating that although she intends to keep winning, she is prepared to make an exception for her close friend.

Apart from responding to Sabalenka’s post on X, Paula Badosa also posted two pictures on her Instagram story to congratulate Sabalenka on winning the US Open. In one of the pictures, Sabalenka was seen carrying the US Open trophy with pride, and in the other, the two pals were seen in a touching moment.

Badosa herself had an excellent campaign at the US Open; she defeated Viktorija Golubic, Taylor Townsend, Elena-Gabriela Ruse, and Wang Yafan to advance to the quarterfinals. She eventually got beaten by Emma Navarro, but it was an excellent run for the Spaniard nonetheless. Even Sabalenka applauded Badosa’s US Open run, highlighting how the Spanish player is getting back to her best rhythm again.

Sabalenka applauds Paula Badosa for her performances in the hard court swing

Paula Badosa put up a strong show during the hard-court swing in North America, winning the Citi Open and advancing to the Cincinnati Open semifinals. Aryna Sabalenka acknowledged her return to the highest level of tennis during a news conference at the US Open, as the Belarusian called Badosa a “fighter” and an “amazing person.”

“Seeing her right now on her… I would say she’s back on her top level. That’s really amazing, and I’m really happy for her, and she deserves it, you know. She’s a fighter. She’s a hard-working girl. She’s an amazing person. I mean, she deserves it all,” Sabalenka said.

Aryna Sabalenka and Paula Badosa got close to each other in an exhibition match where they were competing. They connected over a brief chat, and their friendship took off from there. Not only are they best friends now, but Sabalenka has actually called Badosa her “soulmate” previously.

“I love Paula very much. We have been friends for three or four years, she is an incredible person. It is very important to have friends on the circuit, so when you find someone who you feel is your soulmate, it is the best thing that can happen to you,” Sabalenka was quoted as saying by Punto de Break

The bond of these two players transcends rivalry since it is based on respect, understanding, and a common experience on the professional tennis circuit. The fans would, however, want to see them lock horns in a Grand Slam match soon, as that will be an exciting watch.