“I’ll give it my all to get back on court”: Paula Badosa issues statement after injury forces her out of the Merida Open

Spanish star Paula Badosa was forced to retire mid-match at the WTA 500 Merida Open Akron due to back pain. The world No. 11 struggled with physical discomfort during her quarterfinal clash against Daria Saville. Although she attempted to finish the match, she ultimately withdrew, visibly struggling with her serve.

Badosa had defeated Jaqueline Cristian in the Round of 16 and was leading 6-1 when the physical issues began. Midway through the second set, she requested a medical time-out and left the court for treatment. However, upon her return, she could barely move and retired with the score at 6-1, 3-5.

Her health status raised immediate concerns, as her recurring back injury has plagued her career, previously sidelining her for over six months in 2023. “A few months ago, I didn’t know if I could play tennis anymore,” Badosa admitted at the Australian Open this year. “At one point last year, I was very close to retiring because I couldn’t see myself competing at this level.”

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Badosa battles back pain

The Spaniard took to social media to thank fans for their support and provided an update on her condition, though she did not specify a timeline for her return.

“Hey everyone. Thanks so much for all the messages and support,” Badosa wrote. “I had to pull out of the match in Mérida because of lower back pain, but I’m already working on getting better. I’ll give it my all to get back on court as soon as possible, with more energy than ever. Big hug, Paula.”

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This injury comes at an unfortunate time, just ahead of Indian Wells, one of Badosa’s favourite tournaments. She won the WTA 1000 title there in 2021, defeating Victoria Azarenka 7-6, 2-6, 7-6 in the final—her only WTA 1000 title to date.

Last year, injury prevented her from competing in Indian Wells, and this season was seen as a prime opportunity to climb the rankings. As a top seed, she was set to start in the second round, avoiding any top-30 opponents in her opening match.

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