WTA Rankings: Aryna Sabalenka Delivers the Expensive Gift She Promised Paula Badosa at the Australian Open

Aryna Sabalenka is not just one of the most powerful players on the WTA Tour; she’s also one of the most generous. After an intense Australian Open campaign, the Belarusian powerhouse has reportedly followed through on an expensive promise she made to her close friend, Paula Badosa. The act of generosity has sent social media into a frenzy, leaving fans wondering—what exactly did Sabalenka give Badosa, and why?

A Friendship Beyond the Court

In an era where rivalries often dominate headlines, the friendship between Aryna Sabalenka and Paula Badosa stands out as a refreshing narrative. The two WTA stars have developed an inseparable bond, frequently sharing their moments of camaraderie on social media. From heartwarming Instagram posts to hilarious behind-the-scenes clips, their friendship has captivated tennis fans worldwide.

Both players have experienced their fair share of ups and downs, from injuries to ranking fluctuations. But through it all, they have remained each other’s biggest supporters. Their relationship extends beyond friendly handshakes at the net—this is a sisterhood forged through years of competing, training, and traveling the world together.

The Australian Open Promise

Sabalenka and Badosa entered the 2025 Australian Open with different expectations. As the reigning champion, Sabalenka carried the pressure of defending her title, while Badosa was still working her way back to peak form after a season plagued by injuries.

Ahead of the tournament, a lighthearted conversation between the two sparked curiosity among fans. During an interview, Badosa jokingly reminded Sabalenka that she had promised her a “very expensive” gift if she defended her Australian Open title. Sabalenka, known for her playful yet competitive nature, laughed it off and confidently assured Badosa that she would keep her word.

At the time, many assumed it was just friendly banter. But after Sabalenka’s dominant run in Melbourne, it became clear that she was serious about honoring her promise.

Sabalenka’s Dominant Australian Open Campaign

Coming off a stellar 2024 season, Sabalenka looked unstoppable at the Australian Open. She steamrolled past her opponents with her signature aggressive baseline play, booming serves, and fearless shot-making. As the tournament progressed, it became evident that she was on a mission to defend her crown.

In the final, Sabalenka faced Iga Swiatek, the world No. 1 and a familiar foe. The match lived up to expectations, featuring high-intensity rallies and breathtaking winners. However, Sabalenka’s sheer power and resilience proved too much for Swiatek. After clinching the victory in straight sets, Sabalenka collapsed to the ground, overwhelmed with emotion. She had done it—back-to-back Australian Open titles!

The moment was historic, but fans couldn’t help but recall her promise to Badosa. Would she really deliver on the extravagant gift?

The Expensive Gift Revealed

Days after her triumphant win, Sabalenka shocked fans by revealing the lavish gift she had bought for Badosa—a custom-designed Rolex watch valued at over $50,000. The luxurious timepiece, encrusted with diamonds and featuring a personalized engraving, was a symbol of both their friendship and Sabalenka’s commitment to keeping her word.

Badosa took to social media to share her excitement, posting a heartfelt message along with a photo of the stunning Rolex. “She actually did it! Thank you, Sabby! You’re the best,” Badosa wrote, accompanied by laughing and heart emojis.

Fans and fellow players flooded the comments section with reactions ranging from admiration to playful jealousy. Many praised Sabalenka for her generosity, while others jokingly asked how they could get on her gift list.

The Meaning Behind the Gesture

While the extravagant gift made headlines, its significance goes beyond its monetary value. Sabalenka’s gesture highlights the deep friendship she shares with Badosa—one built on trust, loyalty, and mutual support.

Tennis can be a lonely sport, with players constantly on the road and under immense pressure to perform. Having a genuine friend who understands the highs and lows of the tour can make all the difference. For Sabalenka and Badosa, their bond is a reminder that competition doesn’t have to overshadow camaraderie.

The Impact on WTA Rankings

Sabalenka’s victory at the Australian Open not only secured her second Grand Slam title but also cemented her position in the WTA rankings. While she fell short of overtaking Swiatek for the world No. 1 spot, her dominant performance sent a clear message—she is still one of the biggest threats on tour.

Meanwhile, Badosa’s ranking received a much-needed boost after a solid run in Melbourne. While she didn’t make it as far as she had hoped, her performances showcased glimpses of her former top-10 level. With the momentum from the Australian Open, Badosa is poised for a strong comeback in the upcoming tournaments.

What’s Next for Sabalenka and Badosa?

With the Australian Open behind them, both Sabalenka and Badosa are setting their sights on the rest of the season. Sabalenka will be looking to carry her form into the Sunshine Double—Indian Wells and Miami—where she has historically performed well. Meanwhile, Badosa will aim to build consistency and reclaim her status as a title contender.

Off the court, their friendship will undoubtedly continue to thrive. Whether it’s through more hilarious social media moments, practice sessions, or even another extravagant gift bet, fans can expect plenty of entertaining content from this dynamic duo.

Conclusion

Aryna Sabalenka’s expensive promise to Paula Badosa may have started as a joke, but it ended in a heartwarming display of friendship. While the Rolex gift turned heads, the real takeaway is the bond these two players share—a reminder that even in the fiercely competitive world of tennis, genuine friendships can flourish.

As the WTA season unfolds, one thing is clear: whether they’re competing against each other or cheering from the sidelines, Sabalenka and Badosa’s friendship is one of the most cherished storylines in women’s tennis. And who knows? Maybe the next bet will be an even bigger prize!