Paula Badosa Cries After Sad Scenes Unfold at China Open

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Vivek Devane | Last updated Sep 28, 2025 7:11 AM ET

What was expected to be a marquee clash at the China Open ended in disappointment today, as Spain’s Paula Badosa was forced to retire early in her first-round match against Karolína Muchová. The Spaniard, who was playing her first tournament since a first-round loss at Wimbledon earlier this year, left the court in tears after pulling out while trailing 4-2 in the opening set.

Badosa, once regarded as one of the brightest stars on the WTA Tour, has endured a difficult season plagued by injuries. Her latest setback, a thigh issue, cut short her much-anticipated return and added to a string of retirements that have derailed her 2025 campaign.

badosa sad pic.twitter.com/NuCuo0fhBE
— fakemcgregor (@fakemcgregor1) September 28, 2025

Visibly heartbroken and distressed, the 27-year-old shook hands with Muchová before walking off the court, her emotions clearly on display. While details of the severity of the injury remain uncertain, concerns are already mounting over whether she may be forced to end her season prematurely in order to recover fully.

Paula Badosa se retiró hoy entre lágrimas al sufrir otra lesión más. Esta vez, en la pierna.

Está siendo una auténtica pesadilla para ella. No tiene nada de continuidad y los problemas físicos no le dejan competir.

Se nos rompe el alma verla así. pic.twitter.com/YNsbkau35Q
— José Morón (@jmgmoron) September 28, 2025

Fans were quick to rally behind her on social media, offering words of encouragement and support as Badosa faces yet another hurdle in her battle to regain full fitness.

Medical time out for Paula Badosa

Issue with inner left thigh / groin area

Karoline Muchova to serve next at 3-2 up in set 1 pic.twitter.com/yrJqC2B6wC
— edgeAI (@edgeAIapp) September 28, 2025

For now, the fans will wait for updates on her condition, hoping that the former World No. 2 can put her injury woes behind her and make a fresh start in 2026. It is yet to be seen if she will continue her 2025 season after a short break if the injury forces her to close her dismal season.

TERRIBLE

De retour après deux mois et demi d’absence à cause de sa blessure au dos, Paula Badosa ABANDONNE, en larmes, contre Karolina Muchova (4-2, ab.) pour une douleur à la cuisse.

La Tcheque atteint les 1/8 de finale au WTA 1000 de Pékin. pic.twitter.com/PGh20dd4e6
— Univers Tennis (@UniversTennis) September 28, 2025

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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