"I have one slam" - Paula Badosa cheekily gets behind the idea of considering Indian Wells as fifth Grand Slam tournament
Paula Badosa has gotten behind the idea of the Indian Wells Open being recognized as the fifth Grand Slam tournament.
Badosa is in California for the 2023 Indian Wells Open. She has previously won the title and reached the semi-finals in her last two appearances at the WTA 1000 event. Badosa will aim to regain her form by delivering strong performances at Indian Wells.
The Spaniard started her 2023 season on a positive note by reaching the semi-finals in Adelaide, where she, unfortunately, sustained an injury and missed the Australian Open. Since then, Badosa has yet to secure a victory. Her recent loss in the first round of the Dubai Tennis Championships last week was a setback but she remains determined to bounce back.
On Friday (March 10), journalist Bastien Fachan proposed an intriguing idea - that the Indian Wells Open should be recognized as the fifth Grand Slam. The reasoning behind his proposal is to allow Roger Federer to retroactively claim five additional Slams, thereby enhancing his already impressive record.
"I can get behind Indian Wells being the Fifth Slam if it means Federer gets 5 more Slams retroactively," Fachan tweeted.
I can get behind Indian Wells being the Fifth Slam if it means Federer gets 5 more Slams retroactively
Badosa found the journalist's proposal intriguing and responded in a playful tone, suggesting that if it were to come to fruition, she would have a Grand Slam title to her name.
"@BastienFachan And I have one slam...#lovetheidea," she wrote.
@BastienFachan And I have one slam… 🤪 #lovetheidea
For her first game in the tournament, Paula Badosa will face compatriot Nuria Parrizas-Diaz on March 12.
Paula Badosa looks back on memorable title-winning campaign at Indian Wells
Paula Badosa recently expressed her emotions on being reminded of her most significant career achievement to date - her victory at the 2021 Indian Wells tournament. This triumph marked a pivotal moment in her career, and understandably, it holds a special place in her heart.
Badosa, the 21st seed, emerged victorious in the WTA 1000 tournament by defeating some of her toughest opponents on her way to the final. As the current World No. 22, she will want to replicate her success this year.
On seeing a post from a fan page that fondly recalled Badosa's triumphant win at Indian Wells in 2021, the Spaniard was deeply moved. The sentiment expressed by the fans resonated with her, and she felt grateful for their support.
In the final, Badosa triumphed against two-time Indian Wells champion Victoria Azarenka, clinching a thrilling match 7-6 (5), 2-6, 7-6 (2).