Stefanos Tsitsipas has shared an emotional message to his girlfriend Paula Badosa after she clinched the WTA Comeback of the Year award.

The Spanish tennis sensation outshone competitors like Emma Raducanu and Naomi Osaka to bag the accolade following her return from a career-threatening back injury that saw her rise to No. 12 in the world rankings. Tsitsipas took to social media to celebrate his partner’s achievement, cleverly referencing Carlos Alcaraz in his tribute.

Badosa was recognized for her heroic comeback after nearly having to retire from tennis due to a severe injury. The former world No. 2 had to cut short her 2023 season post-Wimbledon due to a stress fracture in her back.

Her initial return this year was challenging, with doctors at Indian Wells warning her about the difficulties of continuing her career. To manage the pain, Badosa turned to cortisone injections.

By May, the 27-year-old had slipped outside the world’s top 100. However, she found her stride again over the summer, securing victory at the Washington Open, reaching the semifinals in Cincinnati, and making it to the quarterfinals of the US Open.

Badosa climbed back to No. 11 in the world and ended the year in 12th place. Her remarkable recovery earned her the Comeback of the Year title in the WTA Awards, as voted by international tennis media.

The Spaniard has previously acknowledged her boyfriend, ATP star Tsitsipas, for his motivation and support during her injury struggles. Now, the Greek tennis pro has returned the favor with a heartfelt social media tribute to Badosa.

“My dear Paula, you’ve worked so hard and shown such resilience to reestablish yourself as a top player this year, and I couldn’t be prouder of you for winning the WTA Comeback Player of the Year award,” he wrote on X. “As someone once famously said, ‘Spanish never die’.”

Fans were quick to catch Tsitsipas’ nod to a well-known phrase. Recalling a past event, after his victory over Alcaraz at the Cincinnati Open final last year, Novak Djokovic complimented his opponent.

“You never give up, man,” the Serb said. “I mean I love that about you but sometimes I wish that you play a few points just like this.”

Alcaraz’s witty comeback was: “Spanish never die” – a sentiment Djokovic acknowledged with familiarity and humor: “Spanish never die? Okay, good. I’ve heard that before. Or I’ve experienced this before!” he chuckled.

Badosa has certainly demonstrated she embodies that spirit. The four-time title holder aims to continue her ascent in the rankings in 2025 following a triumphant return season.