The deep bond between tennis aces Aryna Sabalenka and Paula Badosa has gained widespread attention as the Spanish athlete acknowledges the challenge of competing against her close friend in the upcoming Miami Open following a recent personal tragedy.
Following the sudden passing of Aryna Sabalenka’s former partner Konstantin Koltsov, a 25-year-old Spaniard, Paula Badosa, has disclosed that she has been providing unwavering support to her Belarusian friend during this difficult period. Konstantin Koltsov reportedly passed away by suicide after jumping from a hotel balcony in Miami.
Despite the heartbreaking circumstances, Sabalenka and Badosa are scheduled to play against each other on Friday, March 22 in the Miami Open, with Badosa acknowledging that it will be a challenging experience to compete against her best friend after such a tragedy. Their friendship extends beyond the tennis court, and here are the details of their deep bond.
These two world-class athletes first met in 2021 during the Cincinnati Masters, where Badosa emerged victorious after a challenging three-set match. They encountered each other again at the 2021 WTA Finals, with the Spanish athlete claiming another victory. The record between them evened out as Sabalenka secured victories in their most recent encounters, setting the stage for an upcoming match in Miami.
Their friendship grew off the court, evident in their frequent social media posts and their shared moments during tournaments. Despite their competitive nature on the court, their friendship thrives beyond the tennis arena.
The two tennis stars have showcased their close bond on their Instagram accounts, displaying their shared adventures and outings. Most notably, their posts together depict genuine friendship away from the pressures of professional tennis. They often refer to each other as ‘soulmates’, signifying the depth of their connection.
Their camaraderie extends to the doubles court, where they have competed together, claiming victory as part of Team Kites in the women’s doubles at the World Tennis League. Sharing the court has further solidified their friendship, with Badosa expressing her admiration for Sabalenka and the role their friendship plays in their mutual success.
Both athletes have openly expressed their affection for each other in the media and on social platforms, emphasizing the rarity of their deep friendship amid their competitive careers. Sabalenka, in particular, has highlighted the significance of having a close companion in the challenging world of professional tennis, especially a fellow competitor.
In the aftermath of Sabalenka’s personal tragedy, Badosa has stood by her friend, offering comfort and support during this difficult time. Despite the upcoming match, Badosa remains committed to maintaining her friend’s privacy and emotional well-being, expressing the difficulty in competing against her best friend.
The bond between Aryna Sabalenka and Paula Badosa showcases an exceptional friendship that surpasses the realm of professional tennis. Their unwavering support for each other both on and off the court is a testament to the depth of their relationship.