Paolini Wins Italian Open, Ends 40-Year Home Title Drought

Jasmine Paolini made history by becoming the first Italian woman in 40 years to win the Italian Open women's singles title, defeating Coco Gauff 6-4, 6-2 at the Foro Italico in Rome. This victory marked Paolini's third career WTA title and her first on clay, achieved with a commanding performance that saw her break Gauff's serve multiple times while maintaining strong focus throughout the match. Paolini's win is a significant milestone for Italian tennis, coming after a decade since an Italian reached the final and continuing the recent surge of Italian tennis success alongside male players like Jannik Sinner. The 29-year-old Italian expressed joy at the home crowd's support and the growth of tennis in Italy. Gauff, ranked third globally, faced her second straight final defeat, delaying her quest for a tenth career title. Paolini may also contend for the doubles title, aiming to emulate rare feats such as Monica Seles' 1990 Rome double victory.