Paula Badosa defeated Kayla Day 6-4, 6-3 in the first round of the Charleston Open, securing her first victory at the tournament since 2023. The 28-year-old Spaniard became emotional after the match, highlighting its personal significance amid her injury struggles. She advances to face Maria Sakkari in the round of 32.
Paula Badosa put together a solid performance to overcome Kayla Day in straight sets during the opening round in Charleston. Despite having her serve broken three times, Badosa maintained control to advance. This win ends a three-year absence from the victory column at the event, where she withdrew last year due to injury. Badosa finished 2025 ranked No. 25 but has dropped to No. 113 this year amid fitness issues. “I’m very emotional. Don’t do this to me. It means the world to me,” Badosa said courtside. “I was very, very sad last year. I had to withdraw from this tournament because of the injury. Coming back today felt really well. It’s a very special tournament for me. I love the crowd.” Badosa has battled recurring back problems since 2023 and recently tore the labrum in her right hip, causing daily pain. “It’s all very connected, but it’s tough to compete like this,” she explained during media day. Despite the challenges, the Spaniard expressed determination to fight through doubts about her body and game. Her next opponent, Greece's Maria Sakkari, awaits in the second round as Badosa seeks a deeper run.