The little Italian, surprise finalist, will challenge the Polish Iga Swiatek this Saturday. To complete the crazy fortnight of Italian tennis.
In the quarter-finals, Jasmine Paolini advanced discreetly as the smallest player still in the race and only Ons Jabeur was older. The Italian (1.63 m, 28 years old) was experiencing her first appearance in the roller coaster of a Grand Slam tournament in the shadow of the size, prize list and prestige of her rivals. Determined to seize her chance. Taking great care not to aim too far or too high. She proved elusive. And his smile lit up Roland-Garros. With its history, its difference, its joy of playing.
“ A secret weapon ? No, I wish I was taller. But, I accept that I have to deal with my body. I am little. We try to ensure that this is not a problem, to do things differently, to improve other aspects such as service. » If the Top 10 peaks at 1.75 m on average, the Italian can cling to the examples of the American Billie Jean King or the Australian Ashleigh Barty (1.65 m).
A fairy tale
Jasmine Paolini…
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