Paula Badosa‘s journey in professional tennis has been anything but smooth. The Spaniard was once ranked world No. 2 in 2022 but faced a series of devastating injuries. Most notable of that was a chronic back issue that nearly forced her to quit the sport. Doctors even warned her that continuing the sport could lead to further complications. However, Badosa refused to let adversity define her career. She fought her way back into the WTA tour and won her first title in two years at the Washington Open. But now she is even more inspired by Madison Keys clinching her first Grand Slam at 30.

Badosa’s resurgence also saw her return to the Top 10 following her stellar run at the Australian Open. This was her maiden Grand Slam semifinal and she lost to her dear friend and two-time defending champion Aryna Sabalenka. Despite falling short in Melbourne, Badosa’s confidence has skyrocketed especially after witnessing Madison Keys’ remarkable triumph.

Paula Badosa was recently interviewed by The National where she dropped an honest take on the Australian Open Grand Slam Winner. “I always said that she’s a very talented player. So for me, seeing win a Slam when she’s 30, it’s amazing. Because it makes you believe that anything can happen,” Badosa said, reflecting on Keys’ victory. The 2025 season has been nothing short of magical for Keys, who stormed through the WTA rankings after securing back-to-back titles in Adelaide and Melbourne.

Badosa also emphasized Keys’ win serves as a powerful reminder that rankings aren’t the only determinant of success. “You don’t have to be seeded No. 3, 2, or 1, to win a Slam. You can be outside of the top 10 and win against anybody when you have the talent and the puzzle is connected when you’re connected in that moment. And I think she was connected, she was in that flow state, and everything came to her, and it’s really nice. Because I think for other players also, it’s inspiring,” she further added.

Although Badosa ultimately fell short against the world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka in the Australian Open semifinals, she walked away from the tournament with a renewed belief in her ability to go all the way at a major. With her current form and mindset, Badosa is poised to build on this momentum as she sets sights on future Grand Slam success. Madison Keys’ victory serves as a source of inspiration and a testament to the unpredictable nature of professional tennis. But where is Badosa headed next?

Paula Badosa Faces Linda Noskova Next at Abu Dhabi

Paula Badosa reached the semifinals of the Australian Open and forced her way back into the WTA’s World Top 10. Her recent performances have showcased her resilience and determination, proving that she is back among the elite women in tennis. Linda Noskova, on the other hand, has had a disappointing start to the year, managing just one win in three tournaments in January. However, she has gained some confidence after beating Magdalena Frech in her first round of the Abu Dhabi Open.

The 20-year-old Czech player won her first WTA title in Monterrey last year but has struggled for consistency later. Noskova and Badosa have never faced each other in a competitive match, which makes this encounter even more interesting. Despite her uneven performances, Noskova has built a reputation for upsetting top-tier opponents. She notably defeated Jelena Ostapenko 6-3, 6-1 in Stuggart last year in April and also stunned Maria Sakkari at the Middle East swing at Doha.

Badosa has been on the tennis circuit for 10 years, and her experience is much greater in terms of Noskova. Having reached the No. 2 career-high ranking, she is well-versed in what it takes to compete at the highest level. Now, Badosa will be aiming to continue her momentum further. While Noskova will be eager to cause another upset. All in all, their clash at Abu Dhabi promises to be an exciting battle for the fans to watch