Badosa: "My aim is to stay healthy and compete at the highest level"

Iker Jiménez | 29 Dec 2025 | 22.48

Paula Badosa returns to the courts with renewed hopes. Source: Getty

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Paula Badosa feels like a tennis player again. After months marked by injuries, physical uncertainty, and constant breaks, the Spanish player now envisions her return to the courts at the WTA 500 in Adelaide. Her body, which had been her greatest enemy for so long, is giving her respite, allowing her to look back at the circuit with ambition and, above all, with a sense of continuity she had missed.

The former world number 2 abruptly ended her 2025 season. In September, she decided to stop in order to fully recover from her back problems and come back stronger than ever. In an interview with AE World, Badosa reflects on her comeback, the lessons learned during these months, and the expectations she faces in this new stage.

Paula Badosa, excited to compete again

"I am thrilled to compete again, feeling confident and ready to give my 100% once more. My main goal is consistency: to stay healthy, compete at the highest level, and enjoy the process. Of course, I also aim to fight for important tournaments; that's always a goal. Off the court, I am looking forward to continuing to grow and enjoy the journey."

You reached the semifinals of the Australian Open in 2025. Does that give you confidence for this year?

"The Australian Open 2025 was very special to me. After a tough preseason, it confirmed that all the work I had put in, both physically and mentally, was paying off. It gave me the confidence boost I needed at that time. Looking ahead to 2026, I feel stronger and more secure. I have had the best preseason of my life. It has been longer than usual, but I needed those extra weeks to recondition my body after the injuries in 2025."

Failure as part of growth

"Unfortunately, my journey has not always been easy. I have gone through many injuries and tough moments. I have learned to see failure as part of the growth process. But from each setback, I drew a lesson. Setbacks teach you a lot if you are willing to listen. Now I have learned to feel the disappointment but not dwell on it; I analyze, learn, and move forward with all possible teachings."

Motivation after injuries

"The injury was one of the toughest moments of my career. What kept me motivated was my love for the sport and my desire to come back stronger. I worked a lot on patience and self-awareness. This year, my focus has been on listening to my body and maintaining consistency."

Mental health in the life of an elite athlete

"Mental health is crucial, especially in such a demanding and solitary sport like tennis. I believe that speaking openly helps normalize something many athletes struggle with in silence. Taking care of the mind is essential for performance, regardless of your situation. I think everyone should take care of their mental health in the same way we take care of physical health. I work a lot with visualization, breathing techniques, and meditation. I have learned that controlling my emotions and thoughts is as important as hitting the right shot."

Dealing with pressure

"It has not been an easy road. Pressure and expectations are constant, both on and off the court. As a woman in professional tennis, often you feel the need to prove yourself more, and at the same time, you are tested in ways that go beyond sports. There have been ups and downs, but those experiences have shaped me. Over time, I have learned to trust myself more and stay true to who I am, both as an athlete and a person. That inner confidence has become one of my greatest strengths."

Areas to improve for 2026

"I am currently working to be in the best possible condition for 2026. I have been equally focused on my physical condition, tennis level, and mental state. I believe that balancing these three pillars will help me have a solid and excellent season."

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Badosa: "Mi objetivo es mantenerme saludable y competir al más alto nivel"

Paula Badosa