WATCH: Paula Badosa's injury forces abrupt retirement, hands Daria Saville a semi-final berth

Tennis sensation Paula Badosa, the second seed at the Merida Open Akron 2025, unexpectedly retired from her quarter-final game against Daria Saville due to a lower back issue. This game took place on March 1, 2025, at the Yucatan Country Club in Merida, Mexico, which was part of the WTA 500 tournament.

The Spanish star had a great start to her game, winning the opening set 6-1, but was trailing 5-3 in the next set of the game when she decided to retire from the game. This retirement of Badosa not only affected her own tournament but also impacted the potential semifinal lineup.

The winner of this game was expected to face Beatriz Haddad Maia in the semifinal. However, Daria is set to move forward to face another opponent in the semi-final clash.

Watch the full video here:

Paula Badosa retires from her match against Daria Saville in Merida

It looks like the injury is her back again.. which is what she’s fought so hard to overcome these last few seasons

Sad to see this

Hopefully we see her healthy again very soon

❤️‍🩹🙏

pic.twitter.com/Imf73AtyWn

— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) March 1, 2025

Paula Badosa remains a formidable player in the WTA circuit despite injury

Paula Badosa's injury showcases the challenges faced by professional tennis players, who often have to manage physical strain throughout the game. The 27-year-old tennis player's decision to retire early was likely aimed at preventing further injury and allowing her recovery time before major tournaments.

Despite this setback, Paula Badosa remains a formidable player in the WTA circuit, known for her aggressive playing style and past success in major tournaments.

Also Read: In Pics, Paula Badosa, Sloane Stephens, Maria Sakkari, and Marta Kostyuk steal the spotlight at Merida Open 2025 players' party

Match Details:

Fixture: Paula Badosa v Daria Saville
Date: March 1st, 2025
Tournament: Merida Open Akron 2025
Round: Quarterfinal
Venue: Yucatan Country Club, Mexico
Category: WTA 500
Surface: Outdoor Hardcourt
Prize Money: $1,064,510
Live Telecast: USA - Tennis Channel | UK - Sky Sports | Canada - DAZN

Paula Badosa vs. Daria Saville head-to-head

Paul Badosa and Daria Saville have never played on the WTA tour, so the current head-to-head is 0-0.

Paula Badosa vs. Daria Saville odds

Players    Moneyline    Handicap Bets    Total Games
Paula Badosa    +450 + 2.5 (-530)    Over 12.5 (+117)
Daria Saville: 670 + 2.5 (+335)    Over 8.5 (+128)