During the Dubai Championship on February 18, 2026, Paula Badosa retired from her match against Elina Svitolina due to persistent hip pain, marking the 38th time in her career she has had to stop competing because of injury. This latest withdrawal sparked criticism from an X user who accused her of being disrespectful to tennis by pulling out of tournaments frequently.
Badosa addressed these accusations directly, emphasizing the challenges she faces living with a chronic injury and reaffirming her commitment to continue playing despite the difficulties involved.
Details of Badosa’s Injury and Her Commitment to the Sport
Paula Badosa’s decision to retire mid-match came after she lost the first set against Svitolina, withdrawing due to hip pain that has plagued her career. Chronic injuries have forced her to stop competing multiple times, leading to public scrutiny. After the tweet labeling her as “disrespectful” for her frequent retirements, Badosa issued a powerful response describing the day-to-day struggle of managing ongoing pain while pursuing her passion.
She stated,
“You have no idea what it’s like to live with a chronic injury and still choose to keep going. To wake up every day not knowing how your body will respond, searching for solutions, and fighting for something you love and give everything even when it’s so difficult.”
This highlights the emotional and physical toll these injuries impose on her career.
Paula added,
“Trust me I’m the first one suffering with pain and having endless nightmares to try to find solutions every single day and for me after all stepping on a tennis court, makes worth everything every time. So I’ll keep trying. Because it’s all about trying and that won’t change. I’ll always try one more time.”
Badosa’s Firm Decision to Continue Playing Despite Setbacks
Rejecting the notion that she might quit, Badosa declared with conviction that she plans to keep competing as long as there is even a minimal chance to recover and play, stating,
“I’m doing this for my passion and for myself. And if there’s even a 1% chance to keep going, I’ll take it. That’s just how I see and understand life.”
She also addressed critics directly:
“If you don’t like it, you don’t have to follow me. And I’m so sorry to inform you I won’t retire so you’ll keep seeing me for a while. Change channel next time.”
Implications for Badosa’s Career and Next Steps
Paula Badosa’s candid explanation sheds light on the struggles athletes face when dealing with chronic injuries in high-level sports. Her refusal to retire despite repeated physical setbacks underlines her dedication and determination to continue competing at the highest level. Tennis fans and observers can expect to see her persist on the WTA Tour, with ongoing management of her condition likely playing a crucial role in her future performances.
You have no idea what it’s like to live with a chronic injury and still choose to keep going. To wake up everyday not knowing how your body will respond, searching for solutions, and fighting for something you love and give everything even when it’s so difficult. Trust me I’m the…
— Paula Badosa (@paulabadosa) February 18, 2026
