Beatriz Haddad Maia, born in Sao Paulo, Brazil in 1996, grew up inspired by Gustavo Kuerten`s success, especially his Roland Garros victories. Kuerten, a three-time French Open champion, famously drew a heart on the clay during his final win in 2001.
“Growing up in Brazil, everyone heard about Roland Garros and Guga’s wins,” Haddad Maia mentioned in Stuttgart. “Most Brazilian courts are clay, so we are used to this surface.”
She added, “I really enjoy playing on clay. The ball bounces higher, allowing for longer rallies. Being a lefty also helps. This part of the year is a great opportunity to improve my game.”
Haddad Maia faced a tough first round in Stuttgart against No. 7 seed Emma Navarro, highlighting the tournament`s strong field. It was a first-round match between two Top 20 players.
Haddad Maia, with a 30-25 career record on clay, hopes to regain the confidence from last fall during this European clay season. Last fall, she reached the Cleveland final, US Open quarterfinals, and won the Seoul WTA 500, winning 12 out of 14 matches.
However, this year has been challenging after reaching the Australian Open third round in January. Haddad Maia believes hard work is key to overcoming struggles.
“There were times when my tennis wasn’t at its best,” she admitted. “For me, the solution is always to work hard, stay present, and maintain a positive attitude, as I have throughout my career.”
“The goal is to be resilient and true to myself, focusing on what I can control. I know I need to work hard to create chances.”
In 2023, Haddad Maia had an impressive clay season, reaching Stuttgart and Rome quarterfinals, and her first Grand Slam semifinal at Roland Garros.
Last year in Madrid, Haddad Maia reached the quarterfinals, defeating Navarro before losing to Iga Swiatek in three sets.
Haddad Maia holds a 2-1 head-to-head record against Navarro, with both wins on clay, including Madrid last year and Strasbourg in 2024.
Practicing together sometimes, including recently in Merida, Mexico, Haddad Maia expects a challenging match against Navarro.
“It will be a tough match for sure,” Haddad Maia stated. “Navarro had a great year after coming from college. It’s good to see players improving and raising the level.”
“I will focus on bringing my best game and hope it works out again.”
Currently ranked No. 17, Haddad Maia aims to break into the Top 10 again, as she did after her Paris semifinal run two years ago, and maintain her health.
“Clay is a very different game,” Haddad Maia concluded. “I have positive feelings and memories. I am excited for what’s ahead.”
Jasper Hawthorne 
Dominic Ashworth