Paolini delivered a commanding performance to become the first Italian woman in four decades to win the Italian Open, defeating American Coco Gauff 6-4, 6-2 in Saturday’s final.
The 29-year-old Paolini, a late bloomer on the WTA circuit, thrilled the home crowd at Foro Italico with a straight-sets victory to secure her second career WTA 1000 title. She follows in the footsteps of Raffaella Reggi, the last Italian woman to win in Rome back in 1985.
Paolini, who won her first major title in Dubai last year, will rise to world number four on Monday. Her impressive form now positions her as a strong contender heading into Roland Garros later this month.
Speaking after the match, Paolini reflected on her journey: “Every time I step on court, I try to do so with joy, passion, and calm. I want to have fun, without putting too much pressure on myself.”
The Italian’s joy was evident as she danced on court following the win. Fans, some in tears, celebrated her victory after what she described as a “dream week.” Paolini could yet claim a second title in Rome, teaming up with Sara Errani for the women’s doubles final on Sunday.
Paolini and Errani, who won Olympic gold in Paris last year, are favourites to retain their Rome doubles title. A win would make Paolini the first woman since Monica Seles in 1990 to win both singles and doubles in Rome.
Meanwhile, Gauff, 20, struggled throughout the match, committing 55 unforced errors and seven double faults. The world number two also fell short in the Madrid final earlier this month.
“Hopefully I can get to the final at Roland Garros and maybe third time’s the charm,” Gauff said post-match. “Despite the errors, reaching the final gives me confidence heading into Paris.”
In men’s action, Italian star Jannik Sinner is set to face Carlos Alcaraz in Sunday’s final, as Italy eyes a potential hat-trick of titles on home soil.
