Italian Photographer Captures Viral One-in-Million US Open Shot of Jasmine Paolini

Italian photographer Ray Giubilo captured a viral, one-in-a-million photo of tennis star Jasmine Paolini during her US Open first-round match against Destanee Aiava, where her face perfectly aligned with the design of her racket, creating a striking and humorous effect. The image, hailed by Paolini as "maybe the picture of the year," quickly gained widespread acclaim on social media for its perfect timing and uniqueness. Giubilo, a veteran photographer with nearly four decades of tennis coverage, explained that the shot was a rare moment when Paolini moved her racket in an unusual way after a forehand stroke, making the image impossible to replicate. Paolini, ranked No. 7 and a Grand Slam doubles champion, praised the photo and personally thanked Giubilo courtside after her victory. The photo's popularity overshadowed the match itself, where Paolini won in straight sets and advanced to the third round, continuing her strong performance at the tournament. Social media and fans celebrated the photo as one of the greatest tennis images ever taken, underscoring the blend of skill, luck, and patience behind such a remarkable capture.