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Rome, May 17, 2025 — Jasmine Paolini etched her name into Italian tennis history on Saturday, becoming the first Italian woman in four decades to win the Italian Open. The 29-year-old from Tuscany defeated American world No. 3 Coco Gauff in straight sets, 6–4, 6–2, at the Foro Italico.

Paolini’s victory marks her second WTA 1000 title and her first on clay, following her earlier triumph at the Dubai Championships. She is the first Italian woman to claim the Rome title since Raffaella Reggi in 1985 .

Throughout the match, Paolini displayed remarkable consistency and tactical acumen, capitalizing on Gauff’s 55 unforced errors and seven double faults. The Italian secured 76% of her first-serve points, maintaining control from the baseline and dictating the pace of play .

Gauff, who reached the finals in both Madrid and Rome this year, had previously defeated top competitors such as Zheng Qinwen, Mirra Andreeva, and Emma Raducanu en route to the final. Despite her strong performance throughout the tournament, she was unable to overcome Paolini’s steady play in the championship match .

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Paolini’s win propels her to a career-high ranking of world No. 4, surpassing Iga Swiatek, who was eliminated in the third round by Danielle Collins .

In addition to her singles success, Paolini is set to compete in the women’s doubles final alongside compatriot Sara Errani. The duo, who secured Olympic gold in Paris last year, aim to achieve a rare singles-doubles sweep at the same tournament .

This victory adds to a remarkable period for Italian tennis. The nation currently boasts Jannik Sinner as the men’s world No. 1 and reigning champion of the Australian Open, US Open, and ATP Finals. Italy also clinched both the Billie Jean King Cup and Davis Cup titles in 2024, underscoring a golden era for the sport in the country .

Paolini’s triumph in Rome not only ends a 40-year wait for an Italian women’s champion but also cements her status as a leading figure in the resurgence of Italian tennis on the global stage.

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