Paula Badosa won what many have called one of the matches of the year in a thrilling three-set final in Indian Wells. The 23-year-old overcame former world No 1 Victoria Azarenka in three hours and four minutes to win the title with a 7-6(5) 2-6 7-6(2) victory. It was the Spaniard’s debut at the BNP Paribas Open, as she replicated Emma Raducanu’s US Open heroics by winning the title on just her first appearance at the tournament.
Badosa and Azarenka couldn’t be separated throughout the final set, as the pair broke each other and continued to earn multiple break points on one another’s serves.
The tight tussle started with a lengthy 79 minute first set, which saw Badosa win it in the tiebreak 7-6(5) after being broken by the Belarusian when she served for the set earlier on.
Azarenka, a two-time former champion in the Californian desert, appeared unbothered by losing a back-and-forth lengthy opening set, and raced to win the second 6-2.
The Spaniard, making her debut in Indian Wells, was the first to strike in the third and broke her opponent’s serve, but was broken back as Azarenka refused to back down.
JUST IN: Raducanu sets up trial with Konta mentor amid struggle to find coach
**We’ll be bringing you the very latest updates, pictures, and video on this breaking news story.
For the latest news and breaking news visit: /sport/football
Stay up to date with all the big headlines, pictures, analysis, opinion, and video on the stories that matter to you.
Follow us on Twitter @DExpress_Sport – the official Daily Express & Express.co.uk Twitter account – providing real news in real-time.
We’re also on Facebook @DailyExpressSport – offering your must-see news, features, videos, and pictures throughout the day to like, comment, and share from the Daily Express, Sunday Express, and Express.co.uk.**
For all the latest Sports News Click Here
For the latest news and updates, follow us on Google News.
