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Aryna Sabalenka Defeats Paula Badosa in Miami Open Second Round
Belarusian star prevails in emotional return to competition after former partner's death
Tribute to Konstantin Koltsov inspires Sabalenka to victory
Aryna Sabalenka has defeated Paula Badosa in the second round of the Miami Open on Friday, playing just days after the death of her ex-partner, former professional ice hockey player Konstantin Koltsov.
Sabalenka, who has won two major singles titles at the 2023 and 2024 Australian Opens and two major doubles titles at the 2019 US Open and the 2021 Australian Open, both partnering Elise Mertens, played with both resilience and emotion on Friday.
The Belarusian star, who has been ranked as high as No. 2 in the world, paid tribute to Koltsov after the match, saying that his memory had inspired her to play her best.
"It was a tough day for me," Sabalenka said. "I lost someone very close to me, and I didn't know if I was going to be able to play. But I knew that he would have wanted me to play, so I went out there and gave it my all."
Sabalenka's victory over Badosa, a former world No. 4, was a testament to her strength and determination. The Belarusian star, who is known for her aggressive style of play, was too strong for Badosa on Friday, winning in straight sets 6-4, 6-3.
Sabalenka's victory is a reminder that even in the face of adversity, the human spirit can prevail.
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