Musa
Jasmine Paolini delivered a clay-court masterclass in Madrid, dismantling Katie Boulter with ruthless efficiency in a dominant straight-sets victory. The Italian needed just over an hour to claim a 6-1, 6-2 win, showcasing her comfort and skill on the red dirt while exposing Boulter’s relative discomfort on the surface.
From the outset, Paolini imposed her game with deep, consistent groundstrokes and intelligent point construction. Her ability to move swiftly and strike with precision neutralized Boulter’s power, forcing the Brit into awkward positions and frequent errors. Paolini’s clay-court instincts — sliding into shots, varying pace, and exploiting angles — were on full display, illustrating why she’s increasingly seen as a dangerous opponent during the European spring.
Boulter, who has enjoyed a strong hard-court season, struggled to adapt to the slower surface and was unable to find her rhythm. Despite flashes of aggressive play, she lacked the patience and movement necessary to challenge Paolini, whose form only improved as the match progressed.
For Paolini, this performance sends a clear message ahead of Roland Garros. Her confidence on clay, paired with recent solid results, suggests she could be poised for a deep run in the coming weeks. Meanwhile, Boulter will look to recalibrate as she continues to gain valuable experience on clay.
This emphatic win marks another step forward for Paolini as she cements herself as a formidable presence on clay, and a player to watch as the European season heats up.
Musa
Olaniyi Ayoola
