Paolini advances to semifinals in Rome: "It's a dream"
Jasmine Paolini went through a rollercoaster of emotions during her quarterfinal match at the WTA 1000 in Rome. Facing a tenacious Diana Shnaider, the Italian, ranked 5th in the world, turned the match around.
After trailing 7-6, 4-0, the two-time Grand Slam finalist eventually found the physical and mental strength to prevail (6-7, 6-4, 6-2 in nearly 2 hours and 30 minutes), securing her spot in the semifinals—the first Italian woman to do so in Rome since Sara Errani in 2014.
As the first player to reach the final four, Paolini will face either Elina Svitolina or Peyton Stearns for a chance to advance to the final. She shared her initial thoughts after making the Final 4 in this home tournament.
"It was a very tough match. I started well, then my intensity dropped. I have to thank the rain at 4-0 in the second set, though Sara’s (Errani, her doubles partner) coaching helped me a lot. The crowd’s support was also crucial.
"In the tough moments of the match, we fought together with patience, and I managed to turn things around. I’m so happy to be in the semifinals in Rome—it’s a dream.
"I’m sorry it’s raining now that Jannik (Sinner) has to play (against Cerundolo). Either way, I hope we all keep moving forward together," Paolini told the Rome tournament media.
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