It's the best match I've played here," says Paolini after her triumph in Rome

In front of her home crowd, Jasmine Paolini claimed the WTA 1000 title in Rome on Saturday, defeating Coco Gauff in the final (6-4, 6-2).

Now the second Italian woman in history to lift the trophy at the Foro Italico, the world No. 5 shared her joy in an interview with Tennis Channel:

"I tried not to focus on the stakes of the match. I kept telling myself that no matter what happened, I had to stay present on every ball. I have to admit, from the very beginning of the match, I felt extremely good. It's the best match I've played here.

"It was an amazing final, and I’m so happy I could win in front of the crowd, my family, my team, and the president! (smiles) It’s unbelievable. [...] Winning here in Rome is something special. I used to come here with my dad to watch the tournament. He was here today, but I don’t know if he cried."

Paolini also reflected on what made the difference for her in this final:

"I tried to be more aggressive. I knew that against Coco, I had to raise my level a bit higher than in previous matches, and it worked.

"I knew she was playing her second final and that she was in great form. But I told myself I could do it, that I had to step onto the court and do what was necessary (to win).