Express. Home of the Daily and Sunday Express. HOME News Politics Royal Showbiz & TV Sport Comment Finance Travel Life & Style Football Tennis F1 Boxing UFC Cricket Rugby Golf Racing NFL NBA Other One Wimbledon star could not keep in their tears after an emotional victory. 16: 31, Fri, Jul 5, 2024 | UPDATED: 16: 43, Fri, Jul 5, 2024
Paula Badosa crying after her Wimbledon victory. (Image: BBC.)
Paula Badosa burst into tears on court after sealing her place in the Wimbledon fourth round, the first time she has reached that stage of any Grand Slam in two years.
The Spanish star has been through an injury-ravaged spell and was even told by doctors that she should retire, forcing her to rely upon medical injections to continue playing.
And there was a huge moment of relief that her effort had paid off with a 7-6(6) 4-6 6-4 victory over Daria Kasatkina, having been down 2-4 in the decider.
When Kasatkina hit her final shot at Wimbledon into the net, Badosa held her arms aloft before placing them on her head as she began to sob. She hugged her opponent and shook hands with the umpire before blowing kisses to the jubilant supporters cheering her on.
“Against Dasha is always a battle,” Badosa said in her on-court interview. “She’s such a great player. She’s been at the top so many years. It’s very special for me. It’s not my first time in 2nd week of a slam. For me it’s the most special one. Because a few months ago, I didn’t know if I’d be able to play tennis.”
Badosa then began to cry as she addressed the crowd, before adding: “I’ll be so embarrassed of this video after but it’s okay.”
Paula Badosa crying in her on-court interview. (Image: BBC.)
Stay up-to-date with the latest Tennis news Join us on WhatsApp
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
Badosa had to retire in the second round of Wimbledon last year after a back stress fracture and shut down the remainder of her season, but insisted that she would keep her career alive by taking cortisone injections and defying her doctor’s plea to hang up the racket.
“In Indian Wells, the doctors told me it would be very complicated to continue my career,” she told WTA Insider earlier this year. “They said this is the only option we can give you and maybe you will have to keep doing that if you want to play for a few more years. I said, ‘A few more years? I’m still 26.’ For me that was very tough. So far, the injections are working. The pain is always there, but there were times I couldn’t even handle it.”
Invalid email
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
Paula Badosa’s emotional reaction as she reaches her 1st Slam R4 in two years.
Her journey with injuries has been painful these last few years.
But she never stopped fighting for moments like these.
Beautiful moment for a very special player. ??????
pic.twitter.com/8CgMJRFTMD
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) July 5, 2024 MORE TO FOLLOW
We’ll be bringing you the very latest updates, pictures and video on this breaking news story.
For the latest news and breaking news visit: express.co.uk/sport/football. Stay up to date with all the big headlines, pictures, analysis, opinion and video on the stories that matter to you.
Follow us on Twitter @dexpress_sport – the official Daily Express & Express.co.uk Twitter account – providing real news in real time.
We’re also on Facebook @dailyexpresssport – offering your must-see news, features, videos and pictures throughout the day to like, comment and share from the Daily Express, Sunday Express and Express.co.uk.
IPSO Regulated Copyright ©2024 Express Newspapers. “Daily Express” is a registered trademark. All rights reserved.
Be First to Comment