Musa
It’s Italian flair vs. Russian firepower as hometown favorite Jasmine Paolini takes on rising star Diana Shnaider in the quarterfinals of the 2025 WTA Italian Open. The Foro Italico is sure to be buzzing as Paolini looks to ride the wave of local support against the aggressive lefty who’s been bulldozing through the draw.
Head to head? This will be their first-ever meeting, adding a juicy layer of unpredictability. Paolini, currently enjoying a career-high ranking and growing confidence on clay, has shown grit and improved shot selection this season. Meanwhile, Shnaider, the feisty 20-year-old with a heavy baseline game and serious swagger, has knocked off seeds like she’s speedrunning a video game.
Paolini thrives on variety and movement, especially in longer rallies. But Shnaider’s explosive style and lefty angles could throw a wrench into the rhythm. It’s chess vs. chainsaw.
Prediction: If Paolini can extend rallies and get the crowd behind her, she might frustrate the youngster into errors. But if Shnaider finds her range early and dominates with her forehand, things could unravel quickly for the Italian.
Still, home court magic is a thing—and Paolini knows this dirt like the back of her racquet.
Betting Odds (as of now):
Paolini: +110
Shnaider: -130
It’s a near coin toss, but we’re giving the edge—by a whisker—to Shnaider in three sets, unless Paolini pulls a Roman miracle. Don’t blink—this one could get wild.
Musa
Olaniyi Ayoola
