Jasmine Paolini's Dream Journey To Her First French Open Final

Jasmine Paolini has expressed her gradual journey towards her first Grand Slam final at Roland Garros. The Italian tennis player defeated Mirra Andreeva in straight sets on Thursday, setting up a final against world number one Iga Swiatek. Paolini aims to secure her first major title in this prestigious tournament.

Paolini's path to the final included a significant victory over Elena Rybakina in the quarter-finals, where she triumphed in three sets. Regardless of the outcome in the final, Paolini is guaranteed to break into the top 10 of the WTA rankings on Monday, with a minimum ranking of number seven.

Reflecting on her journey, Paolini admitted that she never envisioned reaching such heights during her early training days. "I was watching Grand Slam finals and other Italians making it to the finals and winning Grand Slams," she said. "Imagining that it could be me was tough. Of course, I wished for it, but now it's something crazy for me. I'm really happy and also surprised."

Paolini's achievement is notable as she becomes the third player in the last decade to reach her first Grand Slam final at Roland Garros after turning 28, following Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova (2021) and Lucie Safarova (2015).

3 - Jasmine Paolini is the third player in the last decade to reach her first Grand Slam final at Roland Garros after turning 28 along with Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova (2021) and Lucie Safarova (2015). Marching. #rolandgarros | @rolandgarros @WTA @WTA_insider pic.twitter.com/opPL1XEzcq

— OptaAce (@OptaAce) June 6, 2024

Paolini acknowledged that she never dreamed of being number one or a Grand Slam champion. "I never dreamed so big. Never maybe dreamed of being in the top 10, but I was hoping, though not really believing it," she stated. "Step by step, I started to believe and dream for closer things."

Swiatek, aiming for her third consecutive French Open title, is considered a strong favourite for the final. Paolini praised Swiatek's achievements but remains undeterred by her opponent's record. "Iga is an unbelievable player. So young, but with so many achievements and Grand Slams," Paolini remarked. "She's doing well week by week, which is not easy. I have huge respect for her."

Paolini's goal for the final is clear: "My goal is to step on the court on Saturday and try to enjoy the match and that moment. I aim to play a good match and deliver a strong performance."