Paolini makes history with Italian Open triumph over Gauff

ROME: Jasmine Paolini etched her name into Italian tennis history on Saturday, becoming the first Italian woman in 40 years to win the Italian Open. The 29-year-old from Tuscany defeated American world number three Coco Gauff 6-4, 6-2 in a commanding final performance in Rome.

This victory marks Paolini’s biggest career title on clay and her second WTA 1000-level triumph, following her win at the Dubai Championships in 2024. Cheered on by a passionate home crowd, Paolini delivered a near-flawless display, outlasting Gauff with consistent, aggressive play and clutch serving.

Paolini’s win also ends a four-decade wait for an Italian women’s champion in Rome since Raffaella Reggi’s 1985 title. “Congrats for the amazing week, Coco. You’re such a great player and a great person,” Paolini said in her on-court speech.

Gauff, who had beaten Paolini twice before, struggled with her rhythm, tallying 55 unforced errors. In contrast, Paolini held firm, winning 76% of her first-serve points and breaking the American’s serve four times.

With the French Open starting May 25, Paolini will carry strong momentum into Roland Garros, where she finished as runner-up last year.