"It's my first time in Rome" - Badosa ahead of the Rome Masters

The world number 2 Paula Badosa has arrived in Rome and spent some time training and checking the courts that she had never been on before this year.

A little more than 12 months ago, the Spaniard was ranked outside of the top 70 in the world and is now coming to Rome as the second favourite in the seeding behind only Iga Swiatek. Speaking ahead of the event, Badosa said:

“It’s nice to be here. It’s my first time in this tournament. I know it sounds funny, but it’s like that. I’m really enjoying a lot. It’s my second day here practicing. I really like the venue, the people, the atmosphere, the energy. So, yeah, I can’t wait to start here the tournament."

A lot has changed for Badosa in the past 12 months as she was set to play in the qualifiers for Rome but a surprise run in Madrid threw a spanner in the works for those plans:

“Last year I could play quallies. I did well in Madrid, so I couldn’t fly here. Yeah, I was very sad because I was really looking forward to come. The other years, I was too bad (to qualify). It’s a little bit surreal to think all this last year what’s happening. Yeah, so that’s why sometimes mentally it’s a process to accept all these kind of things, to learn how to deal with the pressure as well. Yeah, well, I think I’m learning. I’m proud of how I’m doing this year, yeah. It’s a little bit crazy”.

Despite the changes Badosa is still the same person dedicated to working hard and staying humble:

“I think the key to stay where I am or to stay as much better ranking as I can is to stay humble and to work very hard. I think if I play very good on this sport, I’m not better than anyone, you know. I didn’t save a life. I’m not a superhero. I’m just playing good on my job. I’m doing my job well, you know? I don’t have to change for that.”