Jasmine Paolini delivered a landmark victory at the 2025 Italian Open, defeating world number three Coco Gauff 6-4 6-2 in a commanding final performance at the Foro Italico in Rome. With this result, the 29-year-old from Tuscany became the first Italian woman in four decades to win the prestigious tournament, marking a breakthrough moment in her career and a proud day for Italian tennis.
Paolini’s triumph is the first by a homegrown player since Raffaella Reggi lifted the trophy in 1985. Her tactical precision, mental resilience, and clean ball striking under pressure earned her the biggest career win in front of an electrified crowd. The victory also pushes Paolini to a career-high world ranking of number four, a remarkable rise considering she began the 2023 season outside the top 40.
From the outset, Paolini took command of the match. She broke Gauff’s serve early in both sets and maintained control throughout. Gauff committed 55 unforced errors in the contest, struggling to find rhythm against the Italian’s well-constructed points and ability to redirect pace. Paolini won 76% of her first-serve points and saved both break points she faced, never allowing the American a foothold in the match.
The final capped a near-flawless week for Paolini, who entered the tournament unseeded but took down a series of top-20 opponents en route to the title. Her ability to maintain consistency from the baseline, combined with improved shot selection and defensive coverage, showcased the maturity of a player now entering the prime of her career.
Gauff, who had reached the final in Madrid earlier this month, again fell short of a title on clay. Despite her powerful serve and trademark backhand, she couldn’t find answers to Paolini’s variety and depth. The 20-year-old American has not won a title in 2025 but remains one of the leading contenders heading into Roland Garros.
Paolini’s victory is not only historic for its national significance but also timely. With the French Open approaching, the Italian has established herself as a serious threat on clay. Her previous best result at Roland Garros was a runner-up finish in 2024. This title run, coupled with her improved ranking and form, will make her a player to avoid in the draw.
In addition to her singles heroics, Paolini is also set to compete in the women’s doubles final alongside veteran Sara Errani. Should they triumph, it would cap one of the most memorable weeks in her career and one of the best Italian performances in recent memory.
Speaking after her win, Paolini described the moment as surreal. “To win at home, in front of this crowd, it is something I never imagined,” she said. “I played the best tennis of my life this week. I hope this is just the beginning.”
With a new career-high ranking and renewed momentum, Jasmine Paolini has emerged not only as a hometown hero but as a legitimate Grand Slam contender as the clay season reaches its peak.