Paula Badosa faced a significant career threat due to a stress fracture in her back that led her to withdraw from all major tournaments in 2023. After initial treatments, including cortisone injections, she made a remarkable comeback, winning crucial matches and ultimately reaching her first grand slam semi-final by defeating Coco Gauff. Overcoming emotional struggles and a ranking drop outside the top 100, Badosa's rise to the top through consistent performances has not only marked a personal victory but also signifies a return to the elite ranks of tennis, returning to the top 10 for the first time since 2022.
I'm a bit emotional, said Badosa, the 11th seed, afterwards. I'm a very emotional person and overcoming something like this... Today, I came in, I wanted to play my best tennis. I did it.
Badosa brilliantly held her nerve to upset Coco Gauff, the third seed and one of the tournament favourites... closing out a brilliant 7-5, 6-4 win.
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