It can’t get any worse for Paula Badosa at the moment. Amid an encouraging run from the US Swing, Badosa is down with an injury and had to pull out of the Japan Open this week. However, that is not the only disappointment for the Spanish star. Earlier this month, she was embroiled in a controversy after her coach, Pol Toledo, shared a picture of Badosa pulling her eyes back with chopsticks in a photo. The picture, which was later deleted from social media, was dubbed racist and Badosa faced massive backlash for it. Days after that controversy, she reignited that unfortunate incident with a joke on social media.

Earlier today, Badosa’s coach shared another picture of the Spanish star on Instagram. This time, it was her picture on the court, as she bid farewell to the 2024 season. Reposting the picture on her Instagram handle, Badosa sarcastically said, “Thank you for not posting a picture that gets me in trouble this time.” However, many fans felt that Badosa was rude in her apology and the comment wasn’t appropriate after she had made a racist remark.

Hours later, Badosa expressed disappointment over the controversy, saying that it was unwanted and that the episode had ended. She further wrote, “It’s really tiring to see constantly hate and criticism on this social media. I had an issue, YES. But after that people and fans in China treated me amazing. Because they UNDERSTAND people can be wrong, recognize it and correct to be better next time and have another chance.”

After Badosa’s racist picture was shared by her coach, she admitted that she wasn’t aware of that racist gesture and issued an apology. Badosa went on to say, “Really sorry didn’t know this was offensive towards racism. My mistake. I take full responsibility. This mistakes will make me learn for next time.” However, the issue is far from settled, as seen today.

Meanwhile, on the tennis front, Badosa has already called time on her season. She opened up about ending her season early despite being in form.

Paula Badosa announces unfortunate news for her fans

Badosa was in good touch during the Asian Swing before back issues forced her to retire midway through the semifinal of the Ningbo Open. Further, with the injury not healed completely and health issues taking a toll on her, Badosa pulled out of the Japan Open and ended her 2024 season abruptly.

She said, “Due to health problems, I couldn’t play yesterday and unfortunately won’t be able to play in Tokyo. My 2024 season has ended. It has been a very long season where I have overcome situations I thought were impossible. I am very proud of myself. I have returned to where I wanted to be and where I aspired to be since my return, to once again be one of the best players in the world.”

With this, her dreams of qualifying for the WTA Finals also crashed. However, Badosa remained hopeful about recovering well and representing her country in the Billie Jean King Cup Finals later this year. Can she come back strongly after an unfortunate health setback? Let us know your views in the comments below.