Jennifer Capriati delivers verdict on Jasmine Paolini after she beat Coco Gauff in Italian Open final
Jennifer Capriati, a former world No. 1 and three-time Grand Slam champion, delivered a glowing verdict on Jasmine Paolini following her stunning victory over Coco Gauff in the Italian Open final on May 19, 2025. Paolini, the diminutive Italian star, clinched her first WTA 1000 title in Rome, defeating Gauff 6-4, 7-5 in a tightly contested match, showcasing her tenacity, speed, and tactical brilliance on the clay courts of Foro Italico. Capriati, who has long been an admirer of players who combine grit with skill, lauded Paolini’s performance as a defining moment in her career, particularly as it came just weeks before the French Open.
Capriati emphasized Paolini’s ability to rise to the occasion against a formidable opponent like Gauff, who is known for her athleticism and competitive spirit. “Jasmine showed incredible heart and fight,” Capriati remarked, pointing to Paolini’s relentless baseline play and her knack for turning defense into offense. The Italian’s victory was especially significant given her underdog status; ranked outside the top 10 at the start of the tournament, Paolini outlasted a strong field, including top seeds, to claim the prestigious title on home soil. Capriati noted that this triumph could propel Paolini into the upper echelons of the WTA rankings and boost her confidence heading into Roland Garros, where clay courts suit her game.
Paolini’s journey to the Italian Open title was marked by her improved consistency and mental toughness, qualities Capriati herself relied on during her own comeback-filled career. Capriati highlighted Paolini’s ability to stay composed under pressure, particularly in the second set, where she fended off a late surge from Gauff to seal the victory. “She’s got that fire and belief now,” Capriati said, drawing parallels to her own battles on the tour. The win also marked a milestone for Italian tennis, with Paolini becoming the first Italian woman to win the Italian Open since Raffaella Reggi in 1985.
Capriati’s verdict underscores Paolini’s emergence as a serious contender. With the French Open looming, Paolini’s clay-court prowess and newfound confidence make her a player to watch. Capriati concluded by predicting that this victory could be a springboard for Paolini to challenge for Grand Slam glory, cementing her status as one of Italy’s brightest tennis stars.
