Italian Paolini Reaches Italian Open Semifinals First Since 2014

Jasmine Paolini made history by becoming the first Italian woman since 2014 to reach the Italian Open semifinals after a dramatic comeback against Diana Shnaider. After losing the first set in a tiebreak and trailing 4-0 in the second, Paolini rallied to win six consecutive games and eventually took the match 6-7, 6-4, 6-2, with strong support and coaching from doubles partner Sara Errani. The crowd’s enthusiasm was evident as they cheered her on during the decisive third set. Paolini will face either Elina Svitolina, a two-time Rome champion, or Peyton Stearns in the semifinals. This marks a significant moment for Italian tennis, as the last Italian woman to win the event was Raffaella Reggi in 1985. Additionally, in the men's draw, Carlos Alcaraz advanced to the quarterfinals after a tough three-set victory over Karen Khachanov, setting up a clash with Jack Draper.