Aryna Sabalenka recently credited her close friendship with fellow player Paula Badosa for helping her through difficult times emotionally. In response, Badosa expressed how touched she was by Sabalenka’s comments about their bond.
“It really means so much to me that I was able to be there for Aryna,” said Badosa. She went on to explain how their friendship formed organically on tour, saying “We just clicked and could totally be ourselves around each other.”
According to Badosa, having another young player going through similar experiences to confide in has been invaluable. “Aryna inspires me so much with her strength and resilience,” remarked Badosa. “We help each other stay positive through all life’s challenges.”
Badosa also emphasized that nurturing true friendships on tour is important, as tennis can be an isolated sport. “Aryna and I wanted to change that,” she stated. “We are like sisters now.”
While the two continue to motivate each other as competitors, Badosa stressed that their off-court friendship takes priority. “Seeing Aryna thrive makes me happier than any of my own wins,” she proclaimed.
Badosa summed up that having Sabalenka’s friendship is one of her biggest blessings in tennis. “We will be there for each other through whatever life brings,” she said. For these rising stars, mutual support shines brighter than any trophy could.
