Jasmine Paolini just wrote herself into Italian tennis history books! 🏆 The 29-year-old stunned fans at Rome’s Foro Italico with a dominant 6-4, 6-2 victory over Coco Gauff, becoming the first homegrown champion at the Italian Open in 40 years. The crowd erupted with chants of "Jas-mine!" as she spun joyfully on the clay court. 🎉
"It doesn’t feel real," Paolini admitted, forming a heart with her hands for the roaring fans. "I came here as a kid to watch—now I’m holding the trophy!" 🇮🇹
But the party isn’t over yet! With Jannik Sinner set to face Carlos Alcaraz in Sunday’s men’s final, Italy could clinch its first-ever singles title sweep in Rome. 🚀 The last Italian woman to win here? Raffaella Reggi in 1985. The last man? Adriano Panatta in 1976. Talk about breaking generational curses! 💥
Paolini’s star keeps rising 🌟: She’s a two-time Grand Slam finalist, Olympic doubles gold medalist, and will jump to No. 4 in the world rankings Monday—just in time for the French Open. Oh, and she’s still in the doubles final too! 👯♀️
President Sergio Mattarella joined flag-waving fans shouting "Vai Jasmine!" as Italy’s tennis renaissance hits full throttle. Could this be the start of a new golden era? 👑
Reference(s):
Jasmine Paolini becomes first home Italian Open winner in 40 years
cgtn.com