SPANIARD Paula Badosa has won her first WTA Tour in two and a half year, claiming the Mubadala Citi FC Open in the United States’ capital. In a topsy-turvy game against Czech Marie Bouzkova, the former world number two worked her way to victory with a 6-1 4-6 6-4 triumph to enter the Top 50 once again.
In winning the title, Badosa will officially regain the mantle of Spain’s top ranked player, surpassing compatriot Cristina Bucsa and entering the Top 50 for the first time in 12 months.
“Especially what I went through the last year, for me being back, winning big titles like a 500, winning the best players this the world, being competing against them again, for me it means a lot,” Badosa said post-match. “That’s why I had this mix of emotions. I was really, really nervous because I really wanted it really bad.”
The match against the world number 43 lasted two hours and 24 minutes with the Spanish wildcard winnning her third match against Bouzkova in as many meetings. She won an outstanding 78 per cent of her first serve points compared to Bouzkova’s 6 1 per cent, while creating 18 break point opportunities.
Though she only capitalised on five, Badosa was only broken three times herself, and did well off the return to win 46 per cent of points compared to Bouzkova’s 36 per cent. While Badosa’s 22-ranking jump saw her enter the month at 40th in the world, Bouzkova also leapt up seven spots into 36th.
A stress fracture in her back had somewhat derailed the last 18 months of her career, and though she started the year slowly, Badosa has found her best form and slowing glimpses of her former top five potential.
“Even before the tournament I was feeling good, I was feeling confident,” Badosa said. “I think I needed to win something, a big title for me. Because my personality, I’m not happy always with finals and semifinals. I want to win titles.
“I’m very perfectionist. Of course, that sometimes brings me down, but also in important moments I think it gives me that extra. I felt I needed this moment very much.”
2024 MUBADALA CITI DC OPEN: WOMEN’S SINGLES RESULT
[WC] Paula Badosa (ESP) defeated Marie Bouzkova (CZE) 6-1 4-6 6-4
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