Coming into this year, Jasmine Paolini had never won a match at Wimbledon which makes her run to the semi-finals even more impressive.
The 28-year-old Italian dropped only three games during her 6-2, 6-1, thrashing of Emma Navarro, who knocked Coco Gauff out of the tournament earlier in the week. Paolini dictated proceedings with the help of 19 winners and converted five out of her six break point opportunities. She has dropped only one set in the tournament so far which was against Madison Keys.
“I have to say today I played a really good match, she’s a really tough opponent, I lost (to) her three times in the last year, so it was tough.” Said Paolini.
2024 has been a breakout year for Paolini who claimed her first WTA 1000 title earlier this year in Dubai. She then went on to contest her first major final at the French Open, where she lost in straight sets. According to OptaAce, she is the oldest player to reach their first two Grand Slam semi-finals since 1977.
“It’s unbelievable, it’s amazing to get the win in this special court. I’m so happy to be in the semi-final. I don’t know what to say at this moment.” She said.
“It’s a dream to be here in this position to be in the semi-final. I was watching finals when I was a kid, on this court.”
An Italian woman has never contested a Wimbledon final since the tournament started in 1884. Paolini will rewrite the history book if she comes through her semi-final match against Donna Vekic, who is currently enjoying her best-ever run at a Grand Slam.
Paolini currently leads their head-to-head 2-1 but they are yet to play against each other on the grass.
“In the semi-final, you have to play tough opponents, and she’s playing amazing.” She said of Vekic.
“I hope to enjoy the next match, to give 100 per cent and I’m going to fight on every ball and I’m just so grateful to be here another time, in front of you guys.”
