Paula Badosa Stuns In-Form Gauff to Reach Australian Open Semis
Paula Badosa has achieved a remarkable milestone at the Australian Open, stunning Coco Gauff to secure a place in her first Grand Slam semi-final. Just a year ago, the Spaniard feared her career might be over due to persistent back problems that saw her tumble to 140th in the rankings. But with grit and determination, Badosa, a former world number two, has staged an extraordinary comeback.
Jaanvy Gill 
Badosa's 7-5, 6-4 victory ended Gauff's 13-match winning streak, halting the 20-year-old American's impressive run. The 27-year-old Spaniard, emotional and reflective after her win, acknowledged the journey she’s been through:
"I've been through a lot. I was one of the best players in the world before, but now I think I’m an even better player," she said.
Named the WTA's Comeback Player of the Year in 2024, Badosa’s recovery from a stress fracture in her spine saw her miss two Grand Slam events in 2023. However, her resurgence began in earnest with a title win at the Washington Open last August and a strong showing at the US Open, where she reached the quarter-finals.
Reflecting on her transformation, Badosa shared, "A year ago, I was here with my back injury, unsure if I would need to retire. Now, I’m in the semi-finals. This is a dream come true."
Awaiting her next is either two-time defending champion Aryna Sabalenka, a close friend, or Russian 27th seed Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova.
Meanwhile, Gauff, who came into Melbourne as the player to beat after her WTA Finals triumph and dominant United Cup performances, was philosophical in defeat. Despite leading the tour in form, her game unraveled against Badosa, as she racked up 25 unforced errors and six double faults.
"Paula was playing great," Gauff admitted. "Maybe some moments in the first set could have gone my way. I’m disappointed, but I’m not completely crushed. I feel like I’m heading in the right direction."
Badosa’s triumph on Rod Laver Arena, marked by an emotional celebration and a heartfelt embrace with Gauff, underlines the resilience and determination that have defined her career revival. With a place in the final now within reach, Badosa’s fairytale comeback is far from over.
