Spain’s Badosa, USA’s Korda capture Washington Open titles

AFP | Washington

The Daily Tribune - www.newsofbahrain.com   

Former world number two Paula Badosa of Spain and American Sebastian Korda each enjoyed the “most special moment” of their careers on Sunday by winning titles at the ATP and WTA Washington Open.

Badosa outlasted Czech Marie Bouzkova 6-1, 4-6, 6-4 to capture her first WTA crown since a severe back injury last year. “I think it’s maybe the most special moment, especially because I went through a lot,” Badosa said.

“I had to fight through that and I had to keep believing in myself.” Korda won the last 10 games to rally past Italy’s Flavio Cobolli 4-6, 6-2, 6-0.

It marks the first time in ATP history a father and son have won the same title, Petr Korda having been Washington’s 1992 champion.

“One of my biggest goals was one day coming here and hopefully winning the tournament,” Korda said. “This is probably the most special moment of my career so far.” Badosa battled through two storm stoppages before taking her first title since January 2022 at Sydney in the US Open tuneup.

 “Today was a very tough day for me because I really wanted to win this title no matter what. It was very emotional,” she said. “Finally I got it. I’m super proud of myself after all.

I’m very happy with this title.” It was the Spaniard’s first title since missing the last six months of the 2023 campaign with a back injury that made Badosa wonder if she would ever win another tournament.

Moments after the triumph was complete, wildcard entrant Badosa lay on her back on the court and cried but later kissed the court in delight.