Jasmine Paolini matches former world No. 1 milestone with victory over Peyton Stearns at Italian Open

The Italian Open is nearing its end, and the finalists for this weekend’s title clash are nearly set. Jasmine Paolini became the first to secure her spot in the Rome final after defeating Peyton Stearns on Thursday, setting up a chance to match a milestone previously achieved by a former world No. 1.

With an impressive performance, Paolini claimed a straight-sets victory over Stearns, proving she won’t be an easy obstacle for any remaining contender. This wasn’t the first time in the tournament that Paolini demonstrated her resilience and skill, she has consistently delivered strong showings throughout the event.

The outlook is promising for the Italian, who not only has the home crowd behind her but is also riding a wave of confidence. With her win, Paolini matches a feat last accomplished by fellow Italian and former world No. 1 in doubles, Sara Errani, who reached the final of the Italian Open in 2014.

Now, Paolini becomes the first Italian woman in 11 years to reach the final in Rome. Back in 2014, Errani’s run ended with a loss to Serena Williams, then the world No. 1 in singles. This time, the fans will be hoping for a different outcome as Paolini takes the court in Saturday’s championship match.

Paolini’s path to the Italian Open final

Paolini has emerged as the breakout star of the tournament. The Italian kicked off her campaign with a straight-sets victory over Lulu Sun in the opening round. She followed that up with another impressive performance, defeating world No. 27 Ons Jabeur in two sets. Paolini then delivered one of the tournament’s most remarkable displays to continue her run.

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In the Round of 16, Paolini took down world No. 17 Jelena Ostapenko in straight sets, solidifying her momentum on home soil. Her quarterfinal clash with Diana Shnaider proved her resilience. After dropping the first set and falling behind 4-0 in the second, Paolini mounted a thrilling comeback to win 6-7 (1), 6-4, 6-2 and secure a spot in the semifinals.

Paolini eyes historic run in singles and doubles

In addition to her singles success, Paolini is aiming to reach the final in doubles as well. Teaming up with fellow Italian Errani, the duo is looking to make a deep run in front of the home crowd.

They will face the pairing of Mirra Andreeva and Shnaider, the same opponent Paolini defeated in the singles quarterfinal, in the doubles semifinals. Should she reach both finals, Paolini would join a select group of players in the WTA to achieve that feat in Italian Open history.