Home Favourite Paolini Through to Quarter-Finals in Rome

Italy’s own Jasmine Paolini is giving the locals something to cheer about at the Internazionali BNL d’Italia, powering her way into the quarter-finals with the kind of gritty, passionate tennis that could only be born on home clay. The 28-year-old Tuscan dynamo edged past her opponent in a tension-soaked battle that had the Rome crowd living and dying with every point — and they lived a lot.

Paolini’s run in Rome hasn’t exactly been serene. She’s had to dig deep, especially in earlier rounds, showing off a warrior’s mentality and footwork that could’ve been choreographed by a Renaissance sculptor. But today? She brought the fireworks. Crisp groundstrokes, fearless shot-making, and that never-say-die energy that’s made her a fan favourite not just in Italy, but on tour.

This marks Paolini’s best-ever showing at her home WTA 1000 event, and it’s no surprise the locals are chanting her name louder with each round. The Foro Italico has seen plenty of drama over the years, but there’s something special about watching a hometown hero rise — especially one who was never considered a surefire contender to go deep.

Now through to the quarter-finals, Paolini is on the brink of something even bigger. Could she be Italy’s next fairytale story in Rome? The crowd certainly thinks so, and if she keeps playing like this, they might just get their wish.

Brace yourselves — Jasmine isn’t done dancing on clay just yet.