Returning to WTA elite the goal for Badosa: "I believe that I belong to the group of the best in the world"

Spanish tennis star Paula Badosa played some of her best tennis en route to her fourth round exit at the 2023 Madrid Open, but believes she is taking steps in the right direction as she attempts to regain the form that saw her break into the top 10 a few years ago.

The former World No.2 made quick work of Coco Gauff in the third round, before falling to Maria Sakkari in the round of 16. Nonetheless, Badosa claims to have learned from the experience, stating she did not have room for errors when playing tougher opponents.

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"I think the main thing is that she has played very solid and I helped a little with more errors than usual at important moments," said Badosa in an interview with Puntodebreak. "The games in which she has broken me I gave away too much and that cannot be allowed against rivals of this level. I am sad, but I am aware that I am in a process, that I come from below, and I must continue enjoying the track and improving."

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The World No.42 was sidelined by a thigh injury at the start of the season, but believes regular play and improvement can help her return to the top of the rankings.

"The main thing for me is to continue competing regularly, improving little by little and moving forward in the process," she added. "In the long term, I want to return to where I was because I believe that I belong to the group of the best in the world."