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Paula Badosa Indian Wells 2021
Tennis News, WTA Tennis Players

‘I feel confident’ – Paula Badosa bidding to become first Spanish woman to win at Indian Wells


Paula Badosa became the first Spanish woman to reach the Indian Wells final in 25 years with victory over Ons Jabeur on Friday.

The Spaniard booked a place in the biggest final of her career with an assured 6-3, 6-3 victory over the Tunisian, who will make history in the rankings update after becoming the first Arab player to reach the Top 10.

Having recorded her 40th victory this season, Badosa set up a final meeting with two-time Indian Wells champion Victoria Azarenka, who last lifted the title five years ago after defeating Serena Williams.

Should Badosa overcome the experienced Belarusian, she will have defeated three major champions en route to victory, having already recorded wins against Barbora Krejcikova and Angelique Kerber.

“Mentally I think I’m very confident,” Badosa said.

“I’m believing every point. Every day I’m working very hard as well. I think I’m progressing on a little bit of everything and that’s what is making my level going up. That’s why I’m in a final and playing against the best of the world.”

Badosa is the first Spanish woman to reach the final match at Indian Wells since Conchita Martinez finished runner-up in 1996 and 1992, and she has done so in her main draw debut.

If Badosa defeats Azarenka on Sunday, she will become the first Spanish woman to lift the title in the Californian desert.


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Tim Farthing, Tennishead Editorial Director & Owner, has been a huge tennis fan his whole life. He's a tennis journalist and entrepreneur as well as playing tennis to a national standard. He also helps manage his local club and volunteers for his local tennis organisation. He's a specialist in content about the administration of professional tennis and tennis coaching for all levels.