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Jasmine Paolini finally had her moment in front of her home fans to clinch the Italian Open title, defeating American star Coco Gauff in straight sets, 6-4, 6-2. The final lasted mere 90 minutes and Paolini scripted her name in the historybooks,
Both of Gauff’s wins came on hard courts, while Paolini’s two victories were on clay, highlighting her growing dominance on the surface.
Gauff Impressed by Paolini’s Development hailed the 29-year-old.
Speaking about her Italian rival’s improvement, Gauff acknowledged the shift in Paolini’s playing style and confidence.
“I played her a long time ago in Adelaide. I remember her playing a little bit more of a passive game style. Now she’s more aggressive,” said Gauff. “I think just developing their games and things like that.”
She added:
“Yeah, I think she’s definitely playing a good level of tennis. On clay, it’s hard. The two wins I had were on hard court. It’s a little bit different.
“Yeah, I think when she’s confident, she’s playing great tennis. Mid last year obviously she made the two back-to-back Grand Slam finals. She is capable of playing top two, number one in the world tennis. Obviously I’m disappointed to lose. I mean, she deserved it, so yeah.”
What’s Next in the Rankings?
Despite her defeat in Rome, Coco Gauff will climb back up to a joint career-best world No. 2 in the updated WTA rankings. Jasmine Paolini, after her sensational run in Italy, will break into the top 5 and reach a career-high world No. 4.
Emotional Reaction from the Champion
Overcome with emotion, Paolini shared her thoughts after lifting the trophy:
"It doesn't seem real to me," Paolini said. "I came here as a kid to see this tournament, but winning it and holding up this trophy wasn't even in my dreams." "It's pure joy to have this trophy in my hands here in Rome at home. Really happy about it and grateful, as well. I'm enjoying the moment. It's an amazing one." "The crowd has been incredible. It's been two incredible weeks, and it's not finished yet."
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