In the fast-paced, high-stakes world of professional tennis, even the fiercest competitors can find time for a bit of banter and camaraderie. Such was the case with Aryna Sabalenka and her close friend Paula Badosa, as they engaged in a playful exchange on social media following Sabalenka’s triumph at the US Open.
The victory was no small feat for Sabalenka, who had been on a scorching hot streak throughout the summer season. After a string of impressive wins on the hard courts, culminating in her first US Open title, Sabalenka took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to express her disbelief at her own success. In response, Badosa, her self-proclaimed “soulmate” on tour, heaped praise on her friend, calling her a “strong woman” and expressing her joy at Sabalenka’s triumph.
But true friendship isn’t just about showering each other with compliments. In a playful jab, Badosa also urged Sabalenka to share the wealth, referencing her impressive winning streak and recent successes on the court. Sabalenka, never one to back down from a challenge, replied in kind, teasing Badosa back with a promise to share, but only for her closest friend.
The exchange didn’t go unnoticed by their peers on the tour, with messages of congratulations pouring in from the likes of Carlos Alcaraz, Iga Swiatek, Bianca Andreescu, Ons Jabeur, and Victoria Azarenka. However, Sabalenka made sure to single out Badosa for a special reply, showing that their friendship is as strong as ever.
In the fast-paced world of professional tennis, where every match and every point can make or break a career, it’s heartwarming to see two players come together in celebration and good-natured ribbing. Sabalenka and Badosa may be fierce competitors on the court, but off the court, they’re just two “soulmates” enjoying the journey together.
