Jasmine Paolini makes history with Italian Open 2025 title win over Coco Gauff

Italian tennis star Jasmine Paolini made national history on Saturday by defeating American Coco Gauff 6-4, 6-2 to win the Italian Open 2025, becoming the first Italian woman in four decades to claim the singles title at Rome’s iconic Foro Italico.

With passionate home support fueling her performance, Paolini delivered a commanding straight-sets victory over World No. 3 Gauff, marking another major milestone in her breakout season. Her triumph ends Italy’s 40-year title drought in the women’s singles event; the last Italian woman to win was Raffaella Reggi in 1985.

The victory positions Paolini as one of the top contenders for the upcoming *French Open 2025, as she’s projected to rise to World No. 4 in the WTA rankings on Monday. Her improved seeding significantly boosts her prospects in the Roland Garros draw.

Italian Tennis reaches historic heights

This weekend could mark a historic sweep for Italy, with Jannik Sinner set to face Carlos Alcaraz in the men’s final on Sunday. Should Sinner win, Italy would celebrate its first-ever singles title double at the Rome Masters.

Adding to the excitement, Paolini is also competing in the women’s doubles final alongside Sara Errani, facing the duo of Veronika Kudermetova and Elise Mertens. A win would make Paolini the first woman since Monica Seles in 1990 to sweep both singles and doubles titles at the Italian Open.

President Mattarella and fans rally behind Paolini

The atmosphere at the Foro Italico was electric, with thousands of Italian fans waving flags and chanting “Vai Jasmine” throughout the match. Even Italian President Sergio Mattarella was present to witness the landmark moment for Italian tennis.

Paolini’s victory wasn’t just about form; it continued a trend. She had previously defeated Gauff on clay in Stuttgart this April, and Gauff has now finished as runner-up in two consecutive clay-court tournaments, including a recent loss to Aryna Sabalenka in Madrid.

SportsLigue