Paula Badosa on comebacks, consistency and competing at the top

Few athletes embody resilience quite like Paula Badosa. A former world No. 2, Grand Slam semifinalist, and one of the most powerful competitors of her generation, the Spanish tennis star’s career has been defined as much by mental strength and self-awareness as by her explosive game. Known for her intensity on court and her openness off it, Badosa has become a leading voice in modern sports, speaking candidly about pressure, injury, mental health, and the realities of life at the elite level.

Giorgio Armani

After a challenging period marked by recurring injuries, Badosa’s return to top form culminated in a landmark run to the Australian Open semifinals in 2025, reaffirming her status as one of the game’s most formidable players. As she looks ahead to the 2026 season, her focus has shifted toward longevity, balance, and consistency, a recalibration shaped by experience rather than expectation.

Now based in Dubai, where she lives and trains, Badosa has found a rhythm that supports both performance and well-being. The city’s world-class facilities, stable climate, and emphasis on recovery have become central to her preparation, offering an environment that allows her to train with intensity while protecting both body and mind.

Giorgio Armani

In this conversation, Paula Badosa reflects on her journey from a seven-year-old discovering tennis to an elite athlete redefining success on her own terms. She speaks about discipline over motivation, turning setbacks into fueling her ambitions, the importance of mental health in a solitary sport, and the values that continue to guide her, on the court and beyond.

We are here in Dubai, where you are currently living and training. What do you love about this city, and how has spending time in the Middle East influenced your game, lifestyle, and training environment?

Dubai gives me the balance that no other city gives me. It allows me to fully focus on my work while also taking care of my recovery and wellbeing. The facilities are top-level, both for practice and recovery. The weather is ideal, as conditions remain the same most of the year and are similar to those we face in most tournaments. Being here has helped me create more structure in my routine and a calmer mindset, which has a direct impact on my tennis.

Fendi

Take us back to the beginning. What first sparked your passion for tennis?

I started playing tennis when I was 7 years old. My parents had to work during the summer, so they needed me to be somehow occupied. I joined a tennis camp in my hometown and fell in love with the sport. I loved the competitiveness, the discipline, and the fact that everything depended on my own effort. I was the first one to get on the court and the last one to leave. A few years later, I realized that tennis was more than a sport for me.

We are here today on set with your mum. How did her journey and passion inspire you and support you throughout your career?

My mum has been a constant source of strength and inspiration. Her sacrifices, her passion, and her belief in me shaped who I am today. She taught me resilience and humility, and I carry that with me every day.

Tod’s

Tell us about some of the challenges along the way, as a tennis player and more specifically as a woman in this field.

It hasn’t been an easy journey. The pressure and expectations are constant, both on and off the court. As a woman in professional tennis, you often feel the need to prove yourself more, and at the same time, you’re constantly being tested in ways that go beyond performance. There have been ups and downs, but those experiences have shaped me. Over time, I have learned to trust myself more and to stay true to who I am, both as an athlete and as a person. That inner confidence has become one of my greatest strengths.

With every success comes setbacks. How do you deal with failure or loss?

Unfortunately, my journey hasn’t always been easy. I’ve gone through many injuries and tough moments. I’ve learned to see failure as part of the growth process. But from each setback, I took a lesson out of it. Setbacks teach you a lot if you’re willing to listen. Now I’ve learnt to feel the disappointment, but I don’t stay there, I analyze, learn, and move forward with all the learnings possible.

You reached the Australian Open semifinals in 2025, a major milestone in your comeback. How did that experience shape your confidence going into 2026?

The Australian Open 2025 was very special for me. After a hard preseason, it confirmed that all the work I had done, both physically and mentally, was paying off. It gave me the confidence boost I needed at that time. Going into 2026, I feel stronger and more secure. I’ve had the best preseason I’ve ever had. It’s been a longer one, but I needed those extra weeks to get my body reconditioned after the injuries I went through in 2025.

Tod’s

You dealt with a difficult back injury last season. What helped you stay motivated during recovery, and how are you approaching this new year physically and mentally?

The injury was one of the toughest moments of my career. What kept me motivated was my love for the sport and my desire to come back stronger. I worked a lot on patience and self-awareness. This year, my approach is about listening to my body and staying consistent.

Tennis is as much mental as it is physical. What are the mindset tools or routines that help you stay focused and resilient?

Routine is key for me. I work a lot with visualization, breathing techniques, and meditation. I’ve learned that controlling my emotions and thoughts is just as important as hitting the right shot.

Valentino

You have spoken openly about mental health in the past. Why is this such an important topic for you, and how does it connect to life as a professional athlete?

Mental health is fundamental, especially in a sport as demanding and lonely as tennis. I believe speaking openly helps normalize something many athletes struggle with in silence. Taking care of your mind is essential to performance, no matter your situation. I feel everybody should take care of their mental health the same way we take care of our physical health.

Your game is known for its power and intensity. What aspects of your tennis are you working on or evolving as you head into the new season?

I’m currently working on getting myself into the best condition possible for 2026. I’ve been equally focused on my physical state, tennis level and mental condition. I believe the balance of these three pillars will help me have a solid and great season.

Valentino

When you think about your long-term legacy in the sport, what impact do you hope to make?

I hope to be remembered not only for my results, but for my fighting spirit and authenticity. I want people to see that it’s possible to be strong, vulnerable, ambitious, and human — all at the same time.

How do you find balance between competing, travelling, and taking time for yourself?

It’s not easy, but I’ve learned to prioritize myself more. I try to create small routines wherever I am, stay connected to my close circle, and give myself moments to disconnect and reset. I love a good spa day wherever I am!

You’re a role model for many young players. What advice would you give to young athletes navigating pressure, expectations, and self-belief?

Work hard and believe in yourself. Be patient with your journey and understand that progress isn’t linear. Most importantly, don’t lose yourself trying to please everyone else.

Giorgio Armani

What are you most excited about for the 2026 season, both on and off the court?

On the court, I’m excited to compete again, feeling confident and ready to give my 100% again. Off the court, I’m looking forward to continuing to grow and enjoying the journey.

What goals have you set for yourself in 2026?

My main goal is consistency — staying healthy, competing at the highest level, and enjoying the process. Of course, I want to fight for big tournaments too; that’s always a goal.