Jasmine Paolini Makes Roman History with Win Over Coco Gauff
Locker Room
May 18, 2025
Jasmine Paolini wiped away forty years of hurt in Rome.
That’s how long it had been since the Italian Open had seen a singles winner from the host nation.
Raffaella Reggi lifted the trophy in 1985. But pocket rocket Paolini is an even bigger star after her 6-4, 6-2 success over Coco Gauff at the Foro Italico.
Jasmine Paolini has won her home tournament – and now she must be one of the hottest favourites for the Wimbledon 2025 final too!
Last year we saw her edged out in the Centre Court showpiece having captured the hearts of watching millions all fortnight.
Heartbreakingly, she had also lost the French Open final a few weeks earlier. But now she knows that winning feeling early in a European summer – and she will want more of this.
Paolini has what it takes for Grand Slam glory. She is incredibly quick around the court – and so much more powerful than she looks.
Jasmine’s trademark smile and clear enjoyment of our sport means she can relax into her natural power.
A final huge, looping swish of the forehand in Rome showed there was no tension in the biggest moments.
Coco Gauff is such a fighter and didn’t make it easy. She hit some defiant winners almost to the end.
But on the day she knew there was no stopping her opponent on home clay in front of a fanatical Italian crowd.
Jasmine Paolini’s extraordinary spirit will surely be Centre stage at Wimbledon 2025.
Maybe the equally popular Coco Gauff will be a rival once more at the business end on grass. Both women are huge attractions.
Paolini’s bubbly personality shone through from the moment she raised her arms in triumph and dashed over to her mother, who was jumping for joy.
Jasmine said: ‘It doesn’t seem real to me. I came here as a kid to see this tournament. But winning it and holding up this trophy wasn’t even my dreams. The crowd has been incredible.’
Gauff said sportingly. ‘You’re an incredible person and player. It’s always tough playing you.’
Another Italian contests the men’s final later. Jannik Sinner plays Carlos Alcaraz. Could he taste glory too?
Jasmine Paolini, Coco Gauff , Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner will be huge stars at Wimbledon 2025.
Will you give us a call to join the party at Wimbledon, the historic home of tennis?