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Paula Badosa has been added to the Kooyong Classic player field after losing early in her comeback tournament at the Adelaide International.
Badosa, 26, made her return from a back injury at the Adelaide International this week. Unfortunately for Badosa, her comeback tournament didn't last long as the Spaniard was beaten by Bernarda Pera in the Adelaide first round.
After losing to Pera in her first official match since Wimbledon, Badosa signed up for the Kooyong Classic - a well-known Australian exhibition tournament. Since Badosa lost early in Adelaide, she was left without a chance to get matches and do good preparation for the Australian Open. When taking that into consideration, Badosa opting to play a match or two in Kooyong is a logical move for the former world No. 2.
BADOSA SET FOR KOOYONG CLASSIC!
— Kooyong Classic (@Kooyong_Classic) January 9, 2024
The former world number 2 will US Open Champion will be in action this week.
The 2024 Kooyong Classic will be held on Jan 10-12 2024.
Get your tickets on ticketek now! pic.twitter.com/4TBmUuELIo
Badosa had a good shot at winning her first match back
After Wimbledon, Badosa ended up missing the rest of the 2023 season due to a stress fracture in her back. However, taking a longer time to address her back injury paid off for Badosa, who entered this season fully healthy and ready.
On Monday, Badosa launched her comeback at the Adelaide International. After making a strong start against lucky loser Pera, Badosa didn't manage to close out the match as the American recovered from a set down to win 3-6 6-2 6-3.
Despite losing the second set, Badosa got off to a strong start to the decider as she claimed an early break and opened a 3-1 lead. But instead of continuing to build momentum and making the most out of her break, Badosa suffered a collapse in her level and intensity as the former world No. 2 lost the next five games and the match.
Now, Badosa will try to get some form and rhythm in Kooyong, but also try to improve and fix certain areas in her game.