Paula Badosa of Spain may have been ecstatic to make her tournament main draw debut at Indian Wells two weeks ago.
She had no idea that the famous newcomer would go on to overcome two-time champion Victoria Azarenka and win the BNP Paribas Open.
Notably, the 23-year-old has joined Bianca Andreescu and Serena Williams in a one-of-a-kind feat en way to victory.
Badosa is the first Spanish woman to win the women’s singles title in the desert thanks to her incredible run. It is not the first time a professional has won the trophy in the main draw of a tournament.
Bianca Andreescu, a Canadian international, had also won the Indian Wells trophy on her main draw debut in 2019. Serena Williams, a 23-time Grand Slam champion, had done the same thing in 1999.
Badosa is the third person to be added to the list. She defeated Azarenka 7-6(5), 2-6, 7-6 in a three-hour three-set thriller (2).
Victoria Azarenka was motivating to Paula Badosa
Paula Badosa, who is 23 years old, had two incredible weeks in the desert. Dayana Yastremska, Coco Gauff, Barbora Krejcikova, Angelique Kerber, Ons Jabeur, and Victoria Azarenka were all defeated by her to win her maiden WTA 1000 championship (second overall).
I remember when I was 14-15 years old and seeing you win Grand Slams. And I remember telling my coach, ‘I hope one day I can play like her.’ So for me, it’s amazing. Thank you for inspiring me so much. And athletes like you, and women like you, I wouldn’t be here without you,” Badosa told Azarenka.
An inspiration to all ☺️@paulabadosa | #BNPPO21 pic.twitter.com/6IRFNlv8Vl
— wta (@WTA) October 17, 2021
“It’s great to inspire people. It’s one of the reasons why I still play tennis,” Azarenka said in response.
Badosa has ascended to eighth place in the WTA Finals Singles Race because to her victory in Indian Wells. However, there is still a lot of competition for her.
Hopefully, the Spaniard will return to the Tour soon and add to her collection of victories. Without a doubt, she’d like to compete in Mexico’s year-ending championships.
Read More: Azarenka reveals the real reason behind her comeback in Indian Wells