'Look good, play good' has new significance for Paula Badosa in Berlin

BERLIN—Around this time last year, Paula Badosa had come to grips that a nagging back injury was on the verge of cutting her WTA career far too short. Playing in Bad Homburg the week prior to Wimbledon, the former world No. 2 successfully played three matches before advancing to the round of 16 at the All England Club in an uplifting run.

Now back on German grass this week, as a Top 10 competitor no less, Badosa is in the mix to take home the crown at the star-studded Berlin Tennis Open. The 27-year-old avenged her 2024 US Open quarterfinal loss to Emma Navarro on her way to the last eight, while also reaching the doubles semifinals with good friend Ons Jabeur.

TENNIS.com caught up with Badosa ahead of Friday’s meeting with Coco Gauff’s conqueror, Wang Xinyu.

What is it about the German summer events, the fans here, that allows you to find the right energy? It’s something you always talk about being an important factor for you.

BADOSA: I do rely on that a lot. I think Germany has great weather to play on grass. For me, it’s very important that the sun is out. I like that kind of energy. I love the fans here. I feel the support every time I play. The courts are amazing.

On the evolution of your game—what lessons have you taken from your past experiences to continue pushing yourself forward as an effective grass-court opponent?

BADOSA: During the years, I learned on grass that you have to go for it. They’re not gonna give it to you. Being more aggressive with the first shots. Maybe in the past years, I wasn’t [aggressive enough], especially with the returns. I’m adjusting and adding some smaller things on this surface.

Stefanos talked to our German colleagues about being grateful for the recent vacation you two enjoyed in Ibiza, for it allowed him to “escape everyday life.” How important is it for you to turn your tennis brain off every so often, which may help your mentality down the road?

BADOSA: It was very important for us, especially because the tour is very intense. Having two or three days is enough, but much needed. We’re working hard. It was necessary for us to spend some time outside of the tennis world after a Slam that is very intense and before one that is coming. We had an amazing time.

Let’s talk about your jewelry line, Aces. We saw Mirra Andreeva wearing the tennis racquet earrings at Roland Garros; Aryna Sabalenka has them here in Berlin. Who’s next? What’s next? Give us the deets!

BADOSA: For me, it’s part of a hobby. I’m enjoying it so much. I gave it to some players. The bad part now is other ones are asking me! (laughter) I’m trying to deal with that, also. It’s fun. I just want to share with my people, my fans. If I can share with tennis players that also are my friends, it’s nice. It’s all part of the fashion love that I have since I was a little girl.

Are you someone who buys into the notion feel good, play good?

BADOSA: For sure. When I look good, I have that self-confidence that makes you feel better. The earrings has always been something important for me since I am 14, 15 years old. I always wear them in a match. It’s something you can recognize me for. I would love that more players could play with it. Why not?

To finish, you and Stef were among the US Open mixed doubles pairs that signed up. Your reaction to the fellow entries and why you may or may not think this could be a sign of the times?

BADOSA: I loved all the players that are playing. They’re the best in the world. There are so many pairings that are fun and good to see. I think it’s going to be very exciting. We wanted to change a little bit of tennis, to have more shows. And I think with that, it’s going to be an amazing show.