Sabalenka and Badosa Set for Highly Anticipated French Open Clash
World No. 2 Aryna Sabalenka and Paula Badosa are set to face off in a third-round matchup at the French Open, with their close friendship adding an extra layer of intrigue to the highly anticipated clash.
Sabalenka, the reigning Australian Open champion, has been dominant in her opening two matches at Roland Garros, cruising through without dropping more than seven games. The Belarusian powerhouse described her Spanish counterpart Badosa as her “favorite” and “best friend” on the circuit, acknowledging the challenge of competing against such a close confidante.
“It’s always tough to play your best friend on tour, but we know how to manage that, we know how to separate court and life,” Sabalenka told BBC Sport. “It’s always a great battle. I always enjoy playing against her.”
Badosa, a former quarterfinalist at the French Open, has also shown impressive resilience in her opening matches, recording two come-from-behind victories to reach the third round. The 26-year-old Spaniard praised Sabalenka’s “big personality” and “good energy,” and expressed her excitement at the opportunity to share the court with her esteemed peer.
“I think it’s going to be fun. Of course sharing the court with her after all these results she’s doing and all this is a pleasure for me,” Badosa said.
With their close friendship adding an extra layer of intrigue, the clash between these two formidable talents is sure to captivate Tennis enthusiasts when they take the court on Saturday for a place in the fourth round of the French Open.
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