We’re used to seeing Jasmine Paolini with a racket in one hand and a fierce game face on full display—but this weekend, fans saw a whole new side of the Italian ace as she traded clay courts for red carpets, and tennis grit for full-blown glamour. And let’s just say… jaws dropped like unforced errors in a tie-breaker.
Appearing at a high-profile gala in Florence, Paolini turned heads in a sleek, floor-length black satin gown with dramatic off-shoulder sleeves, a daring slit, and just enough sparkle to blind an umpire. Gone were the sneakers and visors—in their place, sky-high stilettos, bold red lipstick, and old-Hollywood waves that gave every paparazzo heart palpitations.
The reaction online? Immediate and unfiltered.
“EXCUSE ME??” wrote one fan. “Jasmine Paolini just walked out of a Vogue fantasy.” Another joked, “I can’t believe I used to think she was just my favorite Italian topspin merchant. She’s now my fashion icon, therapist, and spiritual guide.”
Even her fellow players couldn’t resist jumping in. One WTA peer commented on her Instagram post, “You serve looks as well as you serve aces 
.” Another added, “When are we doing a doubles runway walk?”
The best part? Paolini played it cool as always. Her caption for the stunning ensemble was a simple: “A little glamour off the court 
.” No fuss, just fierce.
The transformation didn’t go unnoticed in fashion circles either. Several Italian style blogs featured her look as one of the top appearances of the night, with one calling her “la perfetta unione di forza e femminilità”—the perfect blend of strength and femininity.
This isn’t the first time Jasmine has shown off her fashion chops. Fans have noted her evolving off-court style, from street-chic travel fits to effortlessly tailored ensembles at media events. But this red carpet moment was her boldest look yet—a clear signal that Paolini isn’t afraid to step into the spotlight outside of the baseline.
More than just a fashion statement, her appearance seemed to symbolize something deeper: the balance between athlete and woman, between grit and grace. In a sport where female players often battle stereotypes and expectations, Jasmine’s embrace of elegance on her own terms felt like its own kind of power move.
And if she can dazzle like this in a gown, imagine what she’ll do next time she walks onto center court.
