"If Aryna Sabalenka chokes against either, she's washed": Tennis fans react to standout draw at Miami Open featuring Halep, Badosa and Sabalenka
WTAMonday, 18 March 2024 at 20:00
The fans
reacted to the draw of the WTA 1000 Miami Open, which highlights the match-up
between Simona Halep and Paula Badosa in the first round. Additionally, the
winner will face the second seed Aryna Sabalenka.
The
Romanian hasn't played professionally since her first-round exit at the 2022 US
Open. The 2-times Grand Slam champion was provisionally suspended in October
2022 for consuming roxadustat, and almost a year later, a total sanction of 4
years was confirmed, meaning her return could have only occurred at the end of
the 2025 season at the age of 34.
However,
Halep appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) and succeeded in
reducing the sanction to only 9 months, a time she had already served, ensuring
her immediate return to the Tour. Her first tournament is in Miami, where she
received a wild card and faced a tough draw against the former world Indian
Wells champion Paula Badosa.
The Spanish
player has been inconsistent over the past year, and back problems forced her
to end the 2023 season after Wimbledon. Badosa has already retired twice during
a match in 2024 and withdrew from Indian Wells before the first round.
Not only
are they debuting against a highly credentialed opponent, but the winner will
also face Aryna Sabalenka in the second round. The second seed surely didn't
leave Tennis Paradise content with her exit in the round of 16 against Emma
Navarro (23rd seed), which further allowed Iga Swiatek, the tournament
champion, to extend her lead at the top of the rankings.
Fans had
various reactions to this section of the draw; while some gave credit to Halep
to start with a victory, others commented that Badosa might retire mid-match
and emphasized Sabalenka's need to secure a win.
Here are
some fan reactions on X:
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.
claps 0visitors 0
Just In
Popular News
Latest Comments
- No one else would get away with this but these AMERCANS! It’s the US Open!! In America!! But sure, go off American ;)DaveyWavey08-09-2026
- WOW !!! Her comebacks have been intense. She's Baaaaack!
mandoist08-09-2026 - Don't lay this shitshow on "Americans". It is a long-running Ego trip with WTA allowing these two Elitists 'in need of a Camera' illicit Wildcards. If these two clowns want to "perform" -- then play the qualies.mandoist08-09-2026
- Here we go again…. Different rules for Americans! Especially THESE Americans. Yuck!DaveyWavey07-09-2026
- It almost feels like they’re on their own “Legacy Tour” by playing these events … but losing each one! No press = $$$ fineDaveyWavey07-09-2026
- Love to listen to Mirra. However, I'm worried about her eyesight if she thinks oversized lips is "pretty".mandoist06-09-2026
- One of the most amazing comebacks in a long, long time. It happens (and Keys shouldn't lose her crackers over this). If Madison starts playing Dress-up and walking out on court like some fantasy character with a Mental Problem... then she should really start worrying!mandoist06-09-2026
- STOP the "Look at Me" Tour now... and forever!!mandoist05-09-2026
- This article is SPOT ON!!!Rapunzel04-09-2026
- This article is SPOT ON!!!Rapunzel04-09-2026
Loading
