Paula Badosa withdraws from Madrid Open due to back injury

Spanish tennis star Paula Badosa pulls out of hometown tournament as back issues continue.

Paula Badosa of Spain speaks at a press conference during Media Day at the Mutua Madrid Open 2025, part of the ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000 tennis tournaments, at Caja Mágica on April 22, 2025, in Madrid, Spain. Photo by Irina R. Hipolito/Europa Press

By Anna Fadiah and Hayu Andini

Spanish tennis star Paula Badosa has officially withdrawn from the 2025 Madrid Open, citing a persistent lower back injury that continues to hamper her return to full fitness. The announcement came just hours before she was set to make her comeback in the second round, marking another setback in a season marred by recurring health issues.

The former world number two and current world number nine took to social media on Friday to break the news, expressing her disappointment at missing her home tournament. Her decision comes after weeks of uncertainty surrounding her recovery, with fans hopeful that the Mutua Madrid Open would be her return to competitive play.

“I wanted to let you know that unfortunately I won’t be able to play the Mutua Madrid Open,” Badosa wrote. “I’ve tried to do everything possible until the last moment because you know how excited I am to play at home, but it’s being a complicated injury. I hope to be 100 percent soon.”

Lingering back injury forces withdrawal

Badosa has not competed since March, when she withdrew from her round-of-16 match at the Miami Open due to the same back problem. The injury, which she has described as complex and nerve-related, has proven more difficult to recover from than previous issues she has faced.

Before the tournament began, she shared with the WTA that her rehabilitation had been challenging. “It’s been a tough injury, honestly, because it was totally different from the last one. It was an injury that was touching the nerves, so I was constantly having pain,” she explained.

“Every day I’m feeling a bit better. Hopefully I will be my 100 percent soon. Not right now, but soon,” she added, signaling that a complete return to form may still be weeks away.

Cristina Bucsa replaces Badosa in draw

In Badosa’s absence, fellow Spaniard Cristina Bucsa has been drafted into the main draw. Bucsa will now face Veronika Kudermetova of Russia in the second round. The late change adds a twist to the tournament’s early rounds, particularly for fans eager to see how Spanish players perform in front of a home crowd.

This marks yet another withdrawal for the Madrid Open, which has already seen notable absences from several high-profile players. Most prominently, men’s world number three Carlos Alcaraz also announced his withdrawal on Thursday due to a thigh injury sustained during his loss in the Barcelona Open final.

Injury troubles continue to haunt Badosa’s career

For Badosa, the latest injury adds to a long list of physical challenges that have repeatedly interrupted her rise in the sport. At 27, she has already weathered several injuries, with chronic lower back pain even leading her to consider retirement last year. Her career has been a mix of impressive highs and frustrating setbacks, often dictated by her physical condition.

Her 2025 season has yet to gather momentum. After a solid 2024 that saw her climb back into the top 10, hopes were high that she would continue that upward trajectory. Instead, health concerns have stalled her progress once again.

The impact on her season and ranking

Missing the Madrid Open—a key WTA 1000 event—could have significant implications for Badosa’s season ranking and confidence. With a competitive field already looking to establish early dominance ahead of Roland Garros, every missed match counts.

The clay-court season is typically a strong period for Badosa, whose game is well-suited to the surface. Missing her home event in Madrid, and potentially more tournaments down the line, could put her French Open preparation in jeopardy.

Her focus now shifts to recovery and targeting a return before the summer hard court season, although her timeline remains uncertain. Given the nerve-related nature of her back injury, rushing back could risk long-term damage.

Spanish tennis fans face double disappointment

The back-to-back withdrawals of Badosa and Alcaraz have cast a shadow over the Madrid Open, which had promised to be a showcase of Spanish tennis talent. With both local favorites out, fan anticipation has shifted to younger, lesser-known Spanish players to carry the mantle.

Tournament organizers will also feel the blow, as Badosa and Alcaraz were key promotional figures for this year’s event. Their absence could affect ticket sales and TV ratings, especially for the early rounds.

Road ahead uncertain, but recovery remains top priority

While Badosa’s injury update was disappointing, it also reflected a mature and measured approach to her recovery. In choosing not to risk further aggravation, she is clearly prioritizing her long-term health and career sustainability.

Experts have noted that injuries involving nerve pain often require extended rest, customized rehabilitation, and a cautious return to high-intensity play. For Badosa, managing her comeback effectively will be crucial in determining whether she can recapture the form that once made her one of the top players in the world.

Despite the current setback, her social media message maintained a hopeful tone, signaling that her competitive spirit remains intact. “I hope to be 100 percent soon,” she emphasized, leaving fans optimistic about her eventual return.

Until then, the women’s draw at the Madrid Open continues without one of its most compelling players. But the focus now turns to her recovery journey—one that both fans and fellow players will be watching closely in the weeks to come.