Jasmine Paolini on Italy's BJK Cup triumph: "It's a great way to end the year".
On Wednesday, Italy won the fifth Billie Jean King Cup in its history. It was led by Jasmine Paolini, who defeated Rebecca Sramkova (6-2, 6-1).
Tathiana Garbin's team overcame a valiant Slovakia team. This title confirms that the new world number 4 has had an exceptional year.
A few minutes after the Italian victory, Paolini reflected on her country's triumph, which marks the first time since 2013 that they have won this competition.
She also spoke of her 2024 season, which has been one of revelation for the 28-year-old: "It's incredible. It's a great tournament.
You play for your country, your team and the players. We also played for Tathiana (Garbin, the captain) who had a difficult year.
We're happy to be all together with the trophy," she says.
The conclusion of a great year for Paolini
Jasmine Paolini was the great revelation of the season. She won her first Masters 1000 in Dubai, the doubles gold medal at the Olympic Games with Sara Errani and the Billie Jean King Cup.
All this while reaching her first two Grand Slam finals (Roland Garros and Wimbledon): "It's a great way to end the year," continues Paolini.
"I'm really enjoying being part of this team. 2024 was a crazy season, it turned into a dream. I hadn't imagined this at the start of the week; it's always complicated to play in this kind of tournament.
You never know who you're going to play and how you're going to feel on the court," she concluded. Now it's time for Jasmine Paolini to go on vacation.