Aryna Sabalenka recently discussed how her friendship with Paula Badosa has played a significant role in helping her open up after facing difficult challenges in life.
Sabalenka and Badosa have shared a strong bond for some time, often seen together at various tournaments and sharing glimpses of their camaraderie on social media. Despite their on-court rivalry, they have prioritized maintaining their friendship.
In a recent episode of the WTA Insider Podcast, Sabalenka revealed that she used to be more reserved in the past, but her friendship with Badosa has encouraged her to be more open.
“I’ve faced some tough situations in life with certain people, which made me close myself off. But now, I feel more open, especially with Paula’s friendship. Having supportive friends is incredibly important,” Aryna Sabalenka expressed.
Sabalenka’s openness comes at a time of great success for her, as she recently clinched the 2024 Australian Open title without dropping a single set. In the final, she defeated Zheng Qinwen 6-3, 6-2, becoming the first woman since Victoria Azarenka in 2013 to secure back-to-back titles at the Melbourne Major.
Meanwhile, Paula Badosa has been recuperating from a back injury sustained during the Thailand Open. She withdrew from her second-round match against Diana Shnaider, trailing 2-6, 4-3, due to the injury.
