There’s a sense of momentum swirling around Jasmine Paolini — and at the French Open she just took yet another bold step forward. The fourth seed from Italy dispatched Yuliia Starodubtseva in straight sets, hitting her stride with authoritative strikes to lock up a spot in the Last 16. Flashscore+1 This isn’t just another win — it’s evidence that Paolini has arrived as a serious contender.
In Paris, amid swirling clay and high stakes, Paolini looked composed and confident. She navigated tricky conditions and took control with her baseline game, closing the match 6-4, 6-1 and validating the buzz that’s grown around her. She admitted she didn’t feel perfect early on — “I was not feeling really well. The conditions are different today…” she said — yet she rallied with conviction. Flashscore+1
What makes this run even more compelling is the context. Paolini has become one of the most consistent players in the majors — this is her fifth Last 16 appearance in her last six Grand Slams. Women’s Tennis Association In an era defined by the unexpected, she is defined by persistence and steady growth.
Last season’s runner-up at Roland-Garros, she is no stranger to the energy and pressure of the second week. But now, she’s entering it with renewed purpose and form. On this day, Starodubtseva challenged early, but Paolini’s superior shot selection, serving under pressure, and cleaner error count swung the match decisively. It marks a shift: mental sharpness meeting physical readiness.
Her next opponent looms — either Elina Svitolina or American Bernarda Pera — and the stakes will rise. History suggests Paolini belongs here. Last year she stood on this court and looked the part. Now, she looks sharper.
Fans are saying: this Israeli-Italian star isn’t just fulfilling potential. She’s rewriting it. With her singles and doubles game improving, the narrative is shifting from “up-and-comer” to “threat to beat.” The fact that she’s managing form, conditions, and bigger matches all together shows her growth beyond just racket work: it’s mindset.
As the crowds, the media, and her rivals turn their eyes to her, Paolini seems ready. She said it best: “I’m happy to be here on this stage.” Yesterday’s win meant another step. Tomorrow could be the moment she launches. Stay tuned.
