About

Paula Badosa was born on the 15th of November 1997 in New York. Her family worked in the fashion industry, which meant she grew up in a creative and dynamic environment. At the age of seven, her parents decided to return to Spain, where they had both been born and raised. It was there that Paula first picked up a tennis racket. She fell in love with the sport and its competitiveness. An important figure in her early development was her childhood coach, Marcelo, who saw her potential from a very young age. Marcelo not only taught her the fundamentals of the game, but also helped shape her mindset, focusing on discipline and resilience. His guidance was instrumental in Paula becoming the driven and competitive player she is today. Surrounded by her family's energy and Marcelo's mentorship, Paula's tennis journey began to unfold, laying the groundwork for her future success.

Paula's journey in tennis quickly began to take shape. By 2012, she had already secured her first ITF Junior title, showcasing her potential early on. In 2015, she rose to prominence by winning the Junior French Open, a victory that cemented her status as a rising star in the world of tennis. This triumph was a turning point, signalling that Paula was ready to transition to the professional circuit, where her determination and talent would soon stand out.

As she transitioned to professional tennis, Paula started to gain momentum in the late 2010s. She made her Grand Slam debut in 2019 and quickly became known for her powerful baseline game and her unyielding spirit on the court. The year 2021 was a defining one for Paula: she claimed her first WTA title at the Serbia Open, reached the semi-finals at the Madrid Open, and crowned her season by winning the Indian Wells Masters, often referred to as the 'fifth Grand Slam.' This victory propelled her into the WTA Top 10, solidifying her place among the world's elite players.

Off the court, Paula is known for her genuine and approachable character. She has openly shared her experiences with anxiety, depression, and mental health, showing a candour that has made her a role model not only for aspiring tennis players but also for those facing similar challenges. Paula's resilience and authenticity have earned her a loyal fanbase, and she continues to inspire many with her personal journey. In 2024, Paula is a formidable presence on the tennis court and a positive influence off it, with a bright future ahead of her.