"I always root for her": Coco Gauff sent Paula Badosa a message due to injury struggles

Monday, 13 May 2024 at 01:30

Coco Gauff commented that she has sent messages of support to Paula Badosa for her injury problems and that they have a friendly relationship despite not being close friends. The 20-year-old star will face the Spaniard in the fourth round of the Rome Open.

Badosa leads the head-to-head by 3-1, and she claimed victory in their only clay court encounter back in the 2023 Madrid Open (6-3, 6-0). The 26-year-old tennis player rose to world No. 2 and won the Indian Wells title, but injuries have prevented her from maintaining her position at the top, and she has been limited in her ability to compete over the past year. In fact, she ended the 2023 season in early July after an injury during Wimbledon kept her out for six months.

Gauff shares details of her relationship with Badosa

Paula Badosa recently commented that Gauff was one of the players who approached her and offered support during her long absence due to injury. In a press conference prior to their match, Coco was asked if she has a close relationship with her upcoming opponent: "Paula and I, we aren’t close friends, but we are friendly with each other," Gauff commented.

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"I think she’s a nice girl. She’s always been nice. Her team has always been nice [at] practice," the world No. 3 said. "I think she’s a player that loves to play tennis. Unfortunate with all the injuries she’s had trying to come back. Something else happening…" she added.

“I felt compelled to just send her a message. I do that with most players on tour that I know. I’ll send a message if I have their number or if we follow each other on Instagram.”

Badosa is currently ranked world No. 126, but she is defending quarterfinals in Rome. A loss to Gauff would make her drop nearly 15 spots.

“Definitely I think we’re pretty friendly on tour. We aren’t close friends. We’re definitely in different stages. I feel like that’s a lot of me on tour. I think she’s 25 maybe, so five years’ age gap. We’re never going to be close friends, but I’m definitely friendly with her on tour. I always root for her,”

“It’s going to be tough playing her. It is a tough matchup for me. I think she’s getting back to her top form. She was No. 2 in the world, playing well. She’s always dangerous regardless of how the past weeks have gone,” Gauff concluded.

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⚔️ Coco Gauff and Paula Badosa will play for a quarter-final spot at the 2024 Italian Open. 🚨 Badosa was more successful against Gauff before, but the 20-year-old has been in much better form this year!

11:00 AM · May 12, 2024

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Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist

Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.

His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.

In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.

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