Badosa claims Mubadala DC Open title after thrilling rain-interrupted final

Paula Badosa (No. 62) emerged as the champion of the Mubadala DC Open, defeating Marie Bouzkova (No. 43) in a challenging match interrupted by rain. The Spanish player, who had struggled with injuries over the past year, celebrated her return to form with this title, her first in 30 months.

The former world No. 2 extended her flawless record in finals to 4-0, overcoming a tough opponent in Bouzkova, who had caused an upset in the semifinals by defeating Aryna Sabalenka, a close friend of Badosa.

The match was interrupted twice, during the second and third sets, creating a rollercoaster experience as the players faced disruptions in their rhythm. The first set was smooth for the Spaniard, who needed only half an hour to secure two breaks and take the lead with a 6-1 score.

The second set saw the first rain delay, which, similar to the semifinals, allowed Bouzkova to find a better level upon returning. After a tight set with both players saving several break points, Bouzkova managed to break late in the set and equalized the match with a 6-4 score. The third set was highly tense, featuring exchanged breaks and another rain delay. Despite the interruptions, Badosa remained flawless and clinched the victory with a score of 6-1, 4-6, 6-4 after two and a half hours.

Badosa continues to climb the WTA Rankings and is set to appear as world No. 40 on Monday. This will ease her access to the main draws of major tournaments in the coming weeks and months, reducing her need for wildcards, as was necessary this time. She also ascends to No. 23 in the Race.