Paula Badosa admitted “it hasn’t been easy” as she opened up about the aftermath of her recent split with Stefanos Tsitsipas.
Former world No 2 Badosa confirmed her split from two-time Grand Slam finalist Tsitsipas this weekend, bringing an end to a high-publicised relationship that had lasted almost one year.
The Spanish star shared an emotional post on her Instagram Story, saying the pair had “amicably” decided to end their relationship.
“After careful consideration and many cherished moments together, Stefanos and I have decided to amicably part ways,” she said.
“We have shared a journey filled with love and learning, and it is as friends with immense mutual respect that we now choose to move forward on our own paths.
“As we transition into this new chapter of our lives, we continue to wish each other nothing but the best in all our endeavours.
“We kindly ask for privacy during this time, and we thank you for your understanding and respect.”
Badosa was back on court for the first time since the announcement on Tuesday and picked up an impressive win over Mirra Andreeva.
The world No 126 – who has struggled terribly with a back issue, and other injury issues since the start of 2023 – downed the teen sensation 6-2, 6-3 to book a meeting with 21st seed Emma Navarro.
And, speaking to Tennis.com, she compared the end of her relationship to the breakdown of another high-profile past tennis relationship between Maria Sharapova and Grigor Dimitrov.
She said: “Emotionally, it hasn’t been easy these past days, but I’m a strong person, so I’m trying to deal with everything as much as I can. I’m quite proud of myself, with how I’m doing.
“When we were great, the relationship was great. Other times, we have our own careers, our own things, and sometimes it’s better to separate ways.
“This reminds me a lot of the story of Maria and Grigor, where you meet the right person but maybe in the wrong moment. It’s a little bit like this.
“We have a great relationship between us. He’s a great guy and I wish him the best. I know that it’s the same on his side. I have so much support from everyone: my family, my team, my friends. I even feel support from his team and his family.
“They’ve all been very supportive of both of us. In the end, it was nothing bad that happened. It’s just life.”
Badosa will likely face Navarro on Thursday, while Tsitsipas – a former Rome finalist – received a round one bye in the Eternal City.