Paula Badosa battles through a tough first-round match against Mexico’s Renata Zarazúa at the WTA 1000 Doha. In the first round of the WTA 1000 Doha, the former world No. 2 was originally set to face Katerina Siniakova, a player who had just reached the semifinals at the Transylvania Open a few days ago.
However, the Czech sustained an injury in that match and was forced to withdraw from the Qatar Open at the last minute. As a result, the Spaniard found herself up against Mexico’s No. 1 player, Renata Zarazúa.
The first set followed a familiar pattern, where the higher-ranked player asserted dominance. Badosa was the first to break serve, quickly taking a 4-1 lead. Zarazúa responded, narrowing the gap to 4-3 with a chance to level the score. However, she lost her serve again, allowing Badosa to serve for the set. The Spaniard made no mistake, sealing it 6-3.
Badosa Struggles but Recovers Just in Time
The second set proved far more challenging. This time, it was the Mexican who secured the first break of serve. Both players held solidly for several games until Zarazúa managed to pull ahead. Badosa, however, responded immediately, breaking back to even the score. But the Mexican wasn’t backing down—she fought hard, winning the last two games of the set to force a decisive third set.
The final set saw Badosa come out in dominant fashion, breaking early to race to a 3-0 lead. Zarazúa fought back, reducing the deficit to 3-2, but Badosa refused to let her momentum slip. She raised her level in the closing stages, closing out the match with a 6-3, 4-6, 6-2 victory. Up next, she will face American Amanda Anisimova in the second round.
Fighting back 🥊@paulabadosa wins a hard fought match against Zarazua 6-3, 4-6, 6-2!#QatarTotalEnergiesOpen pic.twitter.com/AfQ2DdqfHE
— wta (@WTA) February 10, 2025
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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