Badosa reached her career-high ranking in 2022, a few months after capturing a title in Sydney, but the 26-year-old Spaniard drifted from the spotlight after a string of issues including a back injury that proved hard to overcome.
After making her return to the tour in January following a lengthy break, doctors advised her against playing on hardcourts or risk further problems in her career.
However, she continued to battle through and on Sunday was rewarded with a fourth title after a 6-1, 4-6, 6-4 victory over Czech Marie Bouzkova at the WTA 500 hard-court event in the US capital.
"One year ago I was on the couch, so it's a big difference now. I'm an athlete again... winning a title after two years," Badosa told reporters.
"I've played four finals and won the four of them. That's what I had on my mind today in the third set. I'm like 'Paula, you're capable of doing this in another final'.
"I think now I'm in a really good place."
Badosa's run in Washington DC included wins over former Grand Slam champions Emma Raducanu and Sofia Kenin and leaves her in good form ahead of the US Open, starting on August 26.
"I felt before I was at a pretty high level because I'm playing against the best players and I'm close," said Badosa, who climbed to number 40 in the world on Monday.
"I think I'm on my way. I don't want to say I'm back because I don't know. I want to test myself a bit more."
