Spain’s Paula Badosa has withdrawn from this month’s Charleston Open due to a recurring lower back injury, casting fresh doubts over her fitness ahead of the claycourt season. The 27-year-old, who has battled chronic back issues over the past year, did not provide a timeline for her return.
Badosa, a former world number two, has struggled with injuries that have seen her drop out of the top 50, even considering retirement last year. However, she showed signs of resurgence at the Australian Open in January, reaching her first Grand Slam semi-final.
Her injury concerns resurfaced soon after, forcing her to retire midway through her Merida quarter-final against Daria Saville and skip Indian Wells. After returning to action at the Miami Open, Badosa advanced to the third round but pulled out before her next match, citing an aggravated back issue.
Following the announcement of her Charleston Open withdrawal, Badosa took to Instagram to express her frustration:
“It’s very sad and tough to deal with the pain … stopping and coming back every single time. Now it’s time to go through the recovery process again. Hopefully, I will be back soon.”
With the Charleston Open running from March 31 to April 6, and major claycourt events approaching in the lead-up to the French Open in late May, Badosa’s absence raises concerns about her readiness for the crucial stretch of the season. Fans and analysts alike will be closely monitoring her recovery in the coming weeks.
