By Erik Gudris | Tuesday, March 31, 2026
Photo credit: Credit One Charleston Open
Paula Badosa, despite dealing with multiple injuries in the past few years, isn’t ready to say good-bye to tennis just yet.
The former top 10 player is back in action at one of her favorite tournaments, this week’s Credit One Charleston Open. A former semifinalist at the WTA 500 event, Badosa is hoping for another good week on the green clay.
Badosa, 28, enjoyed a winning start to the tournament as she defeated American qualifier Kayla Day 6-4, 6-3 in their opening round match.
“Always feels good to come back on clay. Honestly, I think I played a pretty solid match. She’s a very talented player. So I didn’t know her much. So I was pretty surprised for her level. And I’m happy that I got the win,” Badosa said about the win afterward.
After reaching a career-high ranking of World No. 2 in 2022, Badosa has dealt with a series of injuries since then that have threatened to derail her career.
First was an almost career-ending stress fracture in her back that has required constant pain management. In 2025, she endured what she first thought was a hip injury, only to later have it diagnosed as a torn labrum.
Those injuries and a lack of matches have left Badosa with a 7-8 win-loss record to start 2026. With her current ranking of World No. 113, Badosa needed a wildcard to enter Charleston.
So it’s no surprise that, during the event’s media day, Badosa was asked whether she’s considered retirement. She confirmed she has thought about it a lot. However, her love of the game keeps her persevering despite the setbacks.
“Every day,” Badosa said, “Every day, I’m thinking about it, but then there’s something that’s even stronger and more powerful: That I still have faith, and I still believe in myself. I have it deep down, and I love the sport too much. I have so much passion for the sport, and I notice it every time I step on a court to compete. I get goosebumps, no matter where I play. I just love those moments.”
“For now, because I love it so much, if the body respects me in a way and I can handle it, I will play until one day when I really want to stop. Right now, these emotions are more powerful than the other one that wants to stop.”
Badosa, who has been candid about her recent struggles on social media, admits she is trying to better manage her emotions. That includes keeping a daily journal and practicing meditation. While Badosa admits that she’s had mental battles with herself when her game and ranking are not where they should be, she’s still trying to find the balance that will help her rise above it all.
“It hurts me, in a way. I’m not seeing my tennis where it’s supposed to be or where I’d like it to be. So, that’s a little bit the mental battle I have with myself. I’m trying to deal with it, seeing it with perspective and patience. Still, I’m very competitive and I have that side in me. It’s a tough balance to find.”
Badosa will next face Maria Sakkari in the next round.