In an exciting semifinal match at the WTA 500 event in Ningbo, China, Jasmine Paolini faced off against Elena Rybakina, needing a victory to secure her spot at the WTA Finals. However, Rybakina showcased her formidable skills by winning decisively with a score of 6-3, 6-2.
In an unexpected twist, the draw for the WTA 500 event in Tokyo was released simultaneously, revealing that while Rybakina and Paolini were included, rising star Mirra Andreeva was not. As the standings currently place Paolini at No. 7 in the Race to the WTA Finals, while Andreeva and Rybakina sit at No. 8 and No. 9 respectively, Paolini’s position ensures that she will finish at least No. 8. This guarantees her place in Riyadh for the Finals.
Paolini has put together an impressive season after achieving a career-high No. 4 ranking in 2024, a year that included her first two Grand Slam finals at Roland Garros and Wimbledon, along with her first WTA 1000 title in Dubai. The current season has also been remarkable for her, highlighted by winning her second WTA 1000 title in Rome. Additionally, she reached another WTA 1000 final in Cincinnati and has secured five more semifinal appearances, including consecutive final-four finishes in Wuhan and Ningbo.
Having made her WTA Finals debut last year, where she competed in both singles and doubles alongside Sara Errani but was eliminated in the round-robin stage, Paolini’s trajectory continues to rise. This season, she aims to build on her previous experience and make a stronger impact at the Finals in Riyadh. With her consistent performance, she remains a player to watch as the season progresses.