Modern tennis is synonymous with the concept of “big.” Big three, big four, big serve, big game, and bigger-than-ever players hitting bigger-than-ever balls.
Enter Jasmine Paolini, challenging the norms of modern tennis. At just 5ft 3in (160cm), Paolini is currently the standout sensation in women’s tennis.
For the second time in five weeks, the petite Italian has forced everyone in the sport to reconsider their understanding of modern tennis, reminding them that champions come in all sizes.
“Amazing,” Paolini exclaimed after her victory over Croatia’s Donna Vekic 2-6, 6-4, 7-6 to reach the Wimbledon final, just weeks after achieving the same feat at Roland Garros in Paris. This will be Paolini’s second consecutive Grand Slam final.
A little over a year ago, Paolini was in her late 20s, ranked between 50 and 80, her career defined by consistency rather than potential Grand Slam victories. Even after winning the WTA Masters 1000 in Dubai, many attributed her success to the unpredictable nature of women’s tennis.
However, Paolini, a 28-year-old from Tuscany with a distinctive head of curly hair, has surged to No 7 in the world rankings and No 3 in the race to the WTA Finals in Riyadh. She is set to break into the top five after Wimbledon.
Paolini has joined the ranks of late-blooming Italians like Francesca Schiavone and Flavia Pennetta, transforming Wimbledon into a showcase of precision and variety over sheer power.
The Italian excitement initially centered on Jannik Sinner, the world No 1 and a favorite for the men’s title, who lost in the quarterfinals due to physical issues. Now, the focus is on Paolini and 22-year-old Lorenzo Musetti.
Musetti, known for mixing slices and spins, returned to his roots on Wimbledon’s grass, cutting Taylor Fritz’s powerful game to ribbons in their quarterfinal match.
On Thursday, it was Vekic’s turn to fall to Paolini’s mix of finesse and determination.
Despite nearly a decade on tour without advancing past the first round at Wimbledon, Paolini’s coach Renzo Furlan insisted she could succeed on grass, and her improved movement has shown results.
Paolini’s dedication to fitness and movement has paid off, making her a fan favorite with her emotional and energetic on-court demeanor.
Thursday’s victory showcased Paolini’s tactical prowess against a taller opponent, exemplifying her determination and strategic play. Her varied serve placement and ability to adapt mid-match have become her defining traits.
Paolini’s tactical acumen makes her a formidable opponent. She varies her serve placement constantly, defying expectations and keeping her opponents guessing.
Her on-court strategy is clinical and effective, maneuvering around opponents’ power and endurance. Paolini’s understanding of her kinetic chain allows her to generate power efficiently, making her shots difficult to counter.
In the third set against Vekic, Paolini’s relentless energy and breath control outlasted her opponent, who struggled physically.
Reflecting on her recent success, Paolini expressed her astonishment at living her childhood dreams of playing at Wimbledon, stating, “The last month has been crazy for me.”
As Paolini continues to redefine expectations, her journey from a childhood dream to Wimbledon’s Centre Court becomes a little more normal each day.