Two-time Grand Slam titlist Simona Halep made a much-awaited return to tennis, after having been on the sidelines because of a ban. She was out of the sport since the 2022 US Open and recently got a reduced ban.
Just before the Indian Wells started, Halep got a verdict on her ban. Upon constant pleas with the CAS, the Romanian was allowed to plead her case in front of the court. According to the verdict, she got a reduced ban for not being completely involved in the case. As she had already served her ban, the Romanian was allowed to compete henceforth.
Luckily, she was soon offered a wildcard entry into the Miami Open and was placed in a tough draw, starting with Paula Badosa. It was a huge match for both the players, but ultimately it was Badosa who started well and beat the 2 time Grand Slam title.
Even if Simona is 10 years without competing, she's still Simona. She's a big player. She's won so many titles. I respect her so much. said Badosa during the post-match interview.
Halep did play some fabulous tennis in the match and was praised highly by many people. However, some people including Caroline Wozniacki, were against Halep receiving a wildcard entry into the Miami Open after a doping ban.
Paula Badosa contradicts Caroline Wozniacki’s statements on Simona Halep’s return, as she beat the Romanian to enter the Round Of 64
Spanish returning star Paula Badosa has been having a roller-coaster of a ride thus far in the year. She was up against another tennis veteran, Simona Halep, who was back after a year.
After the match, Badosa had nothing but kind words for the Romanian, who played extremely well despite being off the court for so long. The Spaniard revealed that she was impressed with Halep’s performance and would expect her to rise to the top soon enough.
I mean, today I was impressed. I think she's going to be back on the top very soon. These kind of players, you can never doubt them because they've been great champions. said Badosa via Miami Open Press.
While this comment was very heartwarming for the Halep fans, they also heard a completely different comment from another player. Caroline Wozniacki had a few words to say about Halep’s return. Though she was friends with the Romanian, the Dane believed that Halep shouldn’t have been given a wildcard because of being caught doping.
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