Paula Badosa and Stefanos Tsitsipas have proven time and again that their bond goes beyond the tennis court, providing steadfast support to each other during challenging periods. Recently, Badosa opened up about how the encouragement of her boyfriend, Tsitsipas, played a pivotal role in reigniting her passion and motivation during a difficult start to 2024.
In an in-depth interview with former tennis star Álex Corretja on Movistar+, Badosa revealed a crucial conversation she had with Tsitsipas during this year’s French Open. At that time, Badosa was battling with self-doubt and frustration stemming from a series of setbacks. Her chronic back injury had sidelined her for much of the previous season, and despite efforts to regain form, she found herself slipping further down the rankings and struggling to reclaim her place in the competitive tennis scene.
Badosa recounted the pivotal exchange with Tsitsipas that took place in Paris, describing how her negative mindset had nearly driven her to give up on the season entirely. “I will never forget it. I wasn’t well; I wasn’t where I wanted to be. I told him: ‘I think I’m going to give up this year because I don’t see myself going back to this,’” Badosa shared. Tsitsipas’ response, however, took her by surprise. “He looked at me with a face like I was crazy and said, ‘but you’re going to be in the top 10 again soon.’”
The Spanish player couldn’t help but laugh at Tsitsipas’ optimism at that moment. “I looked at him and thought, ‘this one has gone. He loves me a lot,’” she joked, clearly touched by his unwavering belief in her abilities. This genuine moment between the couple would become the spark Badosa needed to reignite her drive and focus.
In 2022, Paula Badosa enjoyed a breakthrough year, reaching a career-high ranking of World No. 2. However, her success was followed by a string of injuries, illnesses, and setbacks. Her chronic back issues, in particular, kept her sidelined for extended periods, and by the time she entered the 2024 French Open, her ranking had plummeted, dropping her out of the Top 100. For a player once at the pinnacle of her sport, it was a harsh and demoralizing fall.
Yet, the conversation with Tsitsipas marked a turning point for Badosa. Motivated by his belief and determined to prove herself once more, she embarked on a remarkable comeback. Over the next several months, the 26-year-old put together a series of impressive performances, climbing her way back up the rankings. Her hard work culminated in a triumphant victory at the Citi Open in Washington — her first title in two years. By the end of the 2024 season, Badosa had worked her way up to World No. 12, a testament to her resilience and determination.
Reflecting on her journey, Badosa expressed immense pride in what she had achieved. “It’s been an incredible year of hard work and recovery. I’m proud of how I managed to turn things around, and Stefanos’ support has been invaluable.”
The connection between Badosa and Tsitsipas extends beyond professional encouragement. The two share a deep bond rooted in mutual respect, admiration, and understanding of the pressures that come with life at the top of their sport. In her conversation with Corretja, Badosa elaborated on how their relationship has been a source of strength during her darkest moments.
“When you have played tennis, you perceive these things differently. He is someone who empathizes deeply with me. He’s been there through almost all my bad moments and has always offered me unwavering support,” she said. For Badosa, it’s not just about having a partner but about having someone who genuinely understands and respects the struggles of a professional athlete. “We have something beautiful as a couple, which is to admire the other. We respect and admire each other a lot. Hearing those words from a great athlete like him motivates me even more. Knowing that your partner believes in you helps a great deal.”
While Tsitsipas is currently in Turin, Italy, serving as an alternate at the 2024 ATP Finals, Badosa is preparing for the Billie Jean King Cup Finals in Malaga, Spain. The Spanish team, which includes Badosa, will be facing stiff competition, including a squad from Poland led by top-ranked Iga Swiatek. Despite the challenges ahead, Badosa enters the competition with renewed confidence and the support of her partner, ready to prove herself once more on the international stage.
The story of Paula Badosa and Stefanos Tsitsipas goes beyond tennis victories and ranking points. It is a testament to resilience, mutual support, and the power of believing in one another. As they continue to navigate their respective careers, they serve as a reminder that even in a sport as individualistic as tennis, having a strong support system can make all the difference.