MADRID, April 25 (Xinhua) -- Spanish tennis fans have suffered another blow as Paula Badosa, Spain's top female player, withdrew from the Mutua Madrid Open on the morning of her opening match.
Badosa's withdrawal follows the announcement that World No. 3 Carlos Alcaraz also would not participate in the tournament due to a groin injury. This development means the tournament has lost two major attractions for home fans.
Earlier in the week, Badosa discussed her ongoing back issues, suggesting she might still compete, but she later posted a message on social media Friday morning.
"Hello everyone, I want to tell you that unfortunately I won't be able to compete in the Madrid Open. I have tried everything possible until the last minute, because you know I love playing at home, but it is proving to be a complicated injury," wrote the Spanish player.
Badosa initially suffered her injury in Rome in 2023, fracturing two vertebrae. After a lengthy recovery, she returned to action and form in 2024. However, her back problems reemerged in Merida in March this year, forcing her to withdraw from Indian Wells. ■
