"It's my first time in Rome" - Badosa excited for tennis in Italy
WTATuesday, 10 May 2022 at 10:45
Updated at Saturday, 07 December 2024 at 12:22
Paula Badosa was supposed to play in Rome last year, but she will make her debut at the Italian Open only this year after missing last year's edition.
The circumstances by which Badosa never played in Rome before are quite interesting but the Spaniard does not mind as the reason was a maiden semi-final run at the WTA 1000 event in Madrid.
Speaking ahead of the Italian Open this year, she explained why she was not able to take part in the qualifying of last year's tournament, and it was only because of good reasons for her.
"Last year I could play quallies. I did well in Madrid, so I couldn’t fly here. Yeah, I was very sad because I was really looking forward to come. The other years, I was too bad (to qualify). It’s a little bit surreal to think all this last year what’s happening."
"Yeah, so that’s why sometimes mentally it’s a process to accept all these kind of things, to learn how to deal with the pressure as well. Yeah, well, I think I’m learning. I’m proud of how I’m doing this year, yeah. It’s a little bit crazy."
The Spanish player also spoke about her debut at the Italian Open. She will play in Rome for the first time, and naturally, she's excited to be competing at the WTA 1000 event in the Italian capital.
"It’s nice to be here. It’s my first time in this tournament. I know it sounds funny, but it’s like that. I’m really enjoying a lot. It’s my second day here practicing. I really like the venue, the people, the atmosphere, the energy. So, yeah, I can’t wait to start here the tournament."
It's been a crazy 12 months for her, going from being ranked barely inside the Top 100 to being the number two seed at some of the best events in the world. Despite all of that, Badosa has not changed.
"I think the key to stay where I am or to stay as much better ranking as I can is to stay humble and to work very hard. I think if I play very good on this sport, I’m not better than anyone, you know. I didn’t save a life. I’m not a superhero. I’m just playing good on my job. I’m doing my job well, you know? I don’t have to change for that."
Popular News
Just In
Loading