The year 2025 hasn’t mirrored the achievements of 2024 for Paolini, a year in which she contested two Grand Slam singles title matches and earned Olympic doubles gold.
Regarding singles play, she didn’t progress beyond the fourth round in any of the four Grand Slams, although she did secure the WTA 1000 title in Rome before a cheering audience. Alongside Sara Errani, another Italian player, she also captured the women’s doubles title at the French Open.
Nonetheless, Paolini has consistently performed exceptionally when representing her nation – a pattern that continued this year.
Very little distinguished her performance from that of world number seven, Pegula, during the gripping initial set. However, Paolini managed to fend off three break points at 4-4 before clinching the set two games afterward.
Pegula attempted a resurgence in the second set, breaking Paolini’s serve in the initial game. However, her errors gradually increased, and her dissatisfaction manifested in racquet smashing and self-criticism between intervals.
Paolini quickly advanced through the second set and appeared poised to secure the championship as she served for the match at 5-1. However, Pegula saved three match points, extending the competition.
Yet, the prior Wimbledon and French Open finalist sealed her triumph in the ensuing game, marking her fourth victory in as many matches this week in Shenzhen.
