Paula Badosa issues ‘racism’ apology after Asian gesture

Paula Badosa faced backlash on Sunday after being accused of mocking Asian people through her gestures, prompting her to issue an apology. The controversy arose from a post by her coach, Paul Toledo, on Instagram. Among the shared photos, one depicted the former World No. 2 pulling her eyelids back with chopsticks, which some fans interpreted as ridiculing the eyes of Southeast Asians.

Badosa responded to the criticism, explaining that she was simply “playing around” with her face and had no intention of offending anyone. She expressed her affection for Asian people, emphasizing that she did not mean to mock anyone.

“Oh no, please don’t take it that way. I never thought it would be interpreted like this. We weren’t even imitating Asian people. I was just playing around with my face and wrinkles. I love Asia, and its people are some of my favorites. I have plenty of Asian friends, and they are the kindest,” Badosa wrote in her comment.

After the incident spread on social media, particularly on X (formerly Twitter), Badosa issued a formal apology. “Hey guys! I’m really sorry. I didn’t realize this was offensive or connected to racism. That’s my mistake, and I take full responsibility. I’ll learn from this experience. I hope you understand. I love you all,” she said.

This controversy dampens what had otherwise been a strong week for Badosa. She kicked off her Asian Swing by reaching the semifinals of the China Open, where she lost to Coco Gauff. Along the way, she achieved dominant victories over Viktoriya Tomova, Rebecca Sramkova, Jessica Pegula, and Zhang Shuai before facing the American.

Although she was defeated by Gauff, who went on to win the tournament by defeating Karolina Muchova in the final, Badosa’s performance marked some of her best tennis in recent years.

However, Badosa has since withdrawn from the Wuhan Open, with Ajla Tomljanovic stepping in to face lucky loser Lucia Bronzetti. Tomljanovic is in great form, having recently won the Hong Kong 125 event, while Badosa moves on from the controversy despite showing flashes of her peak form on the court.

Hey guys! Really sorry didn’t know this was offensive towards racism. My mistake. I take full responsibility. This mistakes will make me learn for next time.
Hope you understand…. I love you all ❤️

— Paula Badosa (@paulabadosa) October 7, 2024