Paula Badosa was extremely emotional after stunning Coco Gauff to reach her first Grand Slam semifinal as the Spanish tennis star instantly remembered that just a year earlier she received a devastating injury diagnosis and didn't know what the future held for her.
On Tuesday, the world No. 12 delivered a big-time performance to beat the third-seeded American 7-5 6-4.
By doing so, the Spaniard booked an Australian Open semifinal ticket but also ended the 11-match winning streak that the 2023 US Open champion was riding into their match.
Moments after sealing the win, Badosa fell on the surface and emotionally and passionately celebrated.
"I'm a bit emotional - as you know, I'm a very emotional person," she said.
"I've been through a lot. I was in the past one of the best players in the world but I think now I'm a better player."
Badosa: A year ago I didn't know if I would have to retire from tennis
Last March, the Spaniard's back injury was diagnosed as a chronic issue and she was even advised by the doctors to stop her career.
"A year ago I was here with my back and I didn't know if I had to retire from this sport," the former world No. 2 noted.
"Now I'm here playing against the best in the world. I won today, I'm in the semi-finals.
"I will never think that a year after I would be here. This is a dream come true."
Since the second part of 2024, Badosa has managed to stay healthy but also rediscover her past form.
After winning the WTA 500 tournament in Washington last summer and also making three WTA semifinals late last year, she is now two wins away from becoming a Grand Slam champion.
In the Australian semifinal, Badosa will play against defending champion and No. 1 seed Aryna Sabalenka.
