Paula Badosa has announced that her 2024 season on the WTA Tour is over due to ongoing health issues but also noted that she still plans to represent Spain at the Billie Jean King Cup Finals in Malaga next month.
On Saturday, the 26-year-old was playing in her fourth semifinal of the year in Ningbo. But unfortunately, she picked up a third consecutive semifinal defeat after she was forced to retire against Daria Kasatkina.
Late in the first set, Badosa looked unwell. And after the Russian won the first set 6-4 and the Spanish tennis star had her blood pressure checked by the doctor, she decided not to continue the match.
Earlier this year, the Spaniard revealed that her back issue was diagnosed as chronic. Also, the current world No. 14 battled an illness last week which forced her to skip Wuhan.
Badosa: I’m out of Tokyo, I’ll take some time to recover
“Because of health issues I wasn’t able to play yesterday and won’t be able to play Tokyo unfortunately. My 2024 season has ended. Has been a very long season where I overcame situations I thought they were impossible. I’m very proud of myself. I’m back where I wanted to be and where l was aiming since my comeback. (one of the best players in the world again). Already looking forward to recover well and prepare to represent my country in Malaga for BJKC. Thank you for the support always. See you soon,” the former world No. 2 announced.
Paula Badosa announcement© Paula Badosa – Instagram
After sharing in April that her back issue was chronic, Badosa admitted she was “scared” and did not know for how long she would be able to play.
However, her back has been holding up pretty well so far with a new treatment as she managed to play more or less regularly – win Washington – and make the semifinal on three other occasions.
Badosa now has time to rest since the BJK Cup Finals are starting on November 13th.