Paolini pounds Gauff to win Rome home title

Jasmine Paolini set the stage for a possible Italian weekend trophy double at the Rome Masters as she won the WTA side of the draw 6-4, 6-2 on Saturday over Coco Gauff.

The Grand Slam finalist last season in Paris and Wimbledon led the way in the hope that Italy’s Jannik Sinner can defeat Carlos Alcaraz in the men’s final on Sunday.

Only one other countrywoman has won the women’s event at the Foro Italico in modern times: Raffaella Reggi (1985). Sara Errani reached the 2014 final, losing to Serena Williams.

Paolini showed off her clay prowess over Gauff, who lost the Madrid final only weeks ago to Aryna Sabalenka.

Paolini’s overwhelming success came after 90 minutes, with American Gauff contributing seven double-faults in her losing effort.

She claimed the trophy in front of Italian president Sergio Matarella on Campo Centrale.

Victory will move the smiling 29-year-old up fourth in the rankings – displacing Iga Swiatek who will be defending her Roland Garros title from outside the top four.

Paolini ignored light rain sprinkles which began to appear as she headed for victory, though the match carried on..

Gauff held for 2-5 before her opponent served out the monumental victory. 

Main photo:- Jasmine Paolini with Rome Trophy – by ISF Ltd