World No. 10 Paula Badosa has once again been sidelined by injury, this time suffering a tear in her psoas muscle, which connects the lower back to the top of the leg. The injury, which occurred prior to her first-round loss to Katie Boulter at Wimbledon, will keep her out of action for “a few weeks,” placing her participation in next month’s U.S. Open in doubt.
Recurring Health Challenges
A former world No. 2, Badosa has faced persistent back issues over the past two years, including a stress fracture in her L4 vertebra during the 2023 clay season that nearly prompted her to retire. Despite a comeback to the top 10 this year, this latest setback underscores just how fragile her fitness remains.
At Wimbledon, after taking the first set off Boulter, Badosa fell 3–6, 6–3, 6–4, but revealed the psoas tear had disrupted her preparation . She bravely attempted to compete at the Copa de la Reina in Huelva but was forced to withdraw after polishing off the opening set, describing the period as “really challenging” and akin to being in a “tunnel with no exit”.
Emotional Toll & Recovery Outlook
In an emotional message to her fans, Badosa said: “These are really challenging times for me but I’m staying hopeful that things will turn around soon and the light at the end of the tunnel will start to shine through,” conveying both her frustration and determination.
Medical reports suggest she will be sidelined for several weeks. Its timing is particularly unfortunate, as she had hoped to return during the American hardcourt season—traditionally one of her strongest stretches—highlighted by last year’s Washington title.
U.S. Open & Beyond
Despite the setback, Badosa remains optimistic about competing in both the U.S. Open singles and the revamped mixed doubles event, where she’s slated to team up with Stefanos Tsitsipas. That tournament kicks off on August 24, leaving her a tight window for recovery.
A Career of Resilience
Badosa burst into the top 10 following her Indian Wells WTA 1000 title and a Grand Slam semi-final at the 2025 Australian Open, despite the physical toll of recurring injuries. Her aggressive baseline style and powerful serve have made her a formidable competitor—when healthy.
However, her recurring back issues—especially around the psoas and lower spine—have disrupted multiple seasons since 2023. Each pause in her momentum has required mental and physical reset. Still, Badosa continues battling back, with her resilience a hallmark of her career.
What Happens Next
- Medical team: should undertake a careful rehab plan addressing the psoas tear over the next few weeks.
- Physical conditioning: will be essential to rebuild core strength and limit the risk of re-injury.
- Tournament schedule: her return may lean heavily on her ability to be match-fit by mid-August.
Final Word
Paula Badosa’s journey has been shaped as much by her talent as by her resilience. This latest injury is another test—but her history shows she’s capable of bouncing back stronger. With the U.S. Open looming, the tennis world will be watching her recovery and hoping to see her aggressive, dynamic game back in full flow.
