Paula Badosa retired mid-match against Aryna Sabalenka, who advanced to the quarterfinals of the WTA 500 Porsche Tennis Grand Prix. The Spanish player put up a strong fight, but physical issues forced her to withdraw during the third set, giving way to the world No. 2 with a score of 7-6, 4-6, 3-3, ret.
In the first set, both players demonstrated strong serving, leading to minimal differences between them. Sabalenka faced her first challenges in the sixth game, where Badosa capitalized on her third break point to take a 4-2 lead.
However, the Belarusian managed to break back in the following game, leveling the score at 4-4. Badosa had two set points on Sabalenka's serve at 6-5, but ultimately, the set went to a tie-break. Despite Badosa initially leading 3-1, Sabalenka won six of the next seven points, clinching the set 7-6(4).
Playing on indoor clay favored Sabalenka's powerful serve, with a first serve percentage of 63% and a win rate of 77%, although her second serve percentage dropped to 44%. Badosa had a first serve percentage of 61%, winning 60% of those points and 63% with her second serve.
The second set started well for Badosa, who secured an early break in the first game and then held her serve to maintain the lead. Both players elevated their first-serve effectiveness, especially Badosa, who barely allowed extended rallies. Badosa saved a couple of break points against her serve and secured another break to go up 5-2.
Although Sabalenka fought back and retrieved one of the breaks, Badosa ultimately claimed the set 6-4. Following the set, Badosa displayed physical discomfort and requested medical assistance, leaving the court for treatment.
Badosa returned to the court and initially gained an advantage in the early stages of the third set, taking a 3-1 lead. However, her physical issues became apparent, and Sabalenka mounted a comeback to level the set at 3-3 against a diminished Badosa, who decided to retire. Badosa left the match in tears, embracing her friend Sabalenka, following a year filled with injuries.
In the quarterfinals, Sabalenka awaits the winner of the match between former Wimbledon champion Marketa Vondrousova (No. 8) and Russian Anastasia Potapova (No. 36).
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
- Wtf? Why is there no reason? And what about the men's?Bel08-11-2026
- One step by another step -- WTA continues to 'lose the plot'. Too many hi-tech microphones being installed at most venues!!! Remove them (especially those along the hallways, sidewalks, and pathways throughout the venues. Not to mention (most of all) remove the mic's from the Players/Coaches Box.
mandoist06-11-2026 - Enough of her bullshit. Go marry someone.mandoist06-11-2026
- Don't you just love this young lady!? We fans often expect athletes to be supermen and superwomen, often forgetting that they WILL GET TIRED! I love Alex's perspective. Tiredness for an athlete should never be viewed as a negative, especially if you are healthy, taking care of your body and mental health and putting in the work. What a mature perspective. Good for you, Alex!Rapunzel05-11-2026
- Jess is absolutely correct! But the disrespect is a trait I have noticed in most of the Russian players. Mirra is good but very immature and lacks humility. Conceivable needs to get a handle on that!Rapunzel05-11-2026
- Having spent weeks and weeks through the years on tour, I can say with confidence that Conchita was (is) one of the very few who realize the surprising level of maturity (and sometimes lack of) which Mirra seems to have developed in such a demanding adult world of Pro-Tennis. While at the same time reminding herself (Conchita, that is) that Mirra is still young and developing mentally and physically. The general public may forget at times, or not at all realize, these modern era young athletes do not have a 'normal' Youth. It's a major sacrifice, among countless sacrifices, these athletes must make. People who blow-off that fact are ignorant and unfair when they blurt out, "They choose fame so they have to put up with the intrusions on their lives". No, they do not.mandoist05-11-2026
- Okay... someone with a camera was EAVESDROPPING on a private conversation. Shouldn't that be the point of discussion here? Regardless of the sensationalist crap by media, Pegula (and anyone) has a right to an opinion. There used to be an expectation that private conversations were respected, regardless of 'stardom' and whatever other defensive excuses media tries to shove in our faces. Boo-hoo if feelings are hurt. BTW: Having been employed at various tourney venues, etc., I can't tell you how nasty and offensive players can be when discussing their opponents and colleagues... in "private". Well, I could, but won't. I also challenge anyone to deny what Jessica said is false.mandoist05-11-2026
- Vacherot is Mongasque, rather than Swiss. The tournament was Swiss :DTrwd7702-11-2026
- After a couple decades traveling to IIHF tourneys overseas... our family is done with it... and I will not be the only one!! Bad enough the NHL allows Ovachenko (a Putin Supporter and Campaigner) to live and play in the USA. Let's not forget the STATE SPONSORED RUSSIAN DOPING PROGRAMS still in effect today.mandoist31-10-2026
- Osaka's mental state apparently does not allow her to reach any more Quarter Finals? I mean, she doesn't really have the time for tennis with all the pre-planning that must go into her 12 year-old "fashion" goals.mandoist29-10-2026
