Those who follow tennis with a passion are well aware of who Paula Badosa is. A formidable player on the court, the Spaniard made headlines recently by reaching her first Grand Slam semifinals at the Australian Open, barely a year after returning from a career-threatening injury.

The New York-born player’s romance with Greek star Stefanos Tsisipas, a two-time Grand Slam finalist, has also captivated tennis fans across the world.

Last year during the Miami Open, the couple’s photo with English football icon David Beckham, co-owner of Inter Miami, went viral after the two players visited the training facility of the MLS team where Lionel Messi plays.

But recently, Badosa stepped into the headquarters of a Dubai organisation without media photographers jostling for space to get the best photographs.

A UAE resident who trains here every December to prepare for the new season, Badosa visited the Al Jalila Foundation, a Dubai-based health organisation which raises money for cancer treatment and research.

Badosa joined the Al Jalila Foundation’s Champions of Hope campaign by donating a tennis racquet.

Badosa poses with officials while giving away her racquet.  

Under the Champions of Hope campaign, the health organisation invites sports icons to donate their equipment. Badosa's racquet now will feature among a host of jerseys, gloves and other equipment on the 'Champions of Hope' wall.

The organisation will auction all of these equipment to raise money for treatment, medical education and cancer research.

Badosa was happy to play a positive role in society.

“As athletes, we’re lucky to have a platform that allows us to inspire and make a difference. Whether it’s supporting charities or just setting an example for the next generation, I believe we have a responsibility to use our influence for this,” Badosa told the Khaleej Times.

Dr Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation, heaped praise on Badosa for becoming a part of the organisation’s sports philanthropy initiatives.

“It was a pleasure meeting Paula Badosa and hearing her insights on how the lessons learned on the court – resilience, discipline, and determination – translate into life and embody a winning attitude,” Al Zarooni told Khaleej Times.

“Her passion for children’s health and commitment to driving positive change through her tennis journey are truly commendable. We are grateful for her generosity in contributing to our Champions of Hope wall and supporting our mission to advance healthcare. We wish her great success in her upcoming tournaments.”

In her own words, Badosa’s biggest dream is to become a Grand Slam champion.

The 26-year-old will get plenty of opportunities to fulfill that dream. But being a part of the ‘Champions of Hope’ will always be just as fulfilling emotionally.

“For me, it’s not just about playing on the court,” she said. “It’s also about leaving a positive impact beyond the court.”