Thu May 15 13:40:00 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

Jasmine Paolini is the only Italian player to advance past the second round at the Internazionali BNL d’Italia in Rome. She defeated Diana Schnaider in three sets to reach the semifinals. Paolini is inspired by the wave of Italian support and the success of fellow players like Jannik Sinner, and looks back to Francesca Schiavone’s historic Roland Garros win as a major inspiration. She faces either Peyton Stearns or Elina Svitolina in the semifinals and is considered a contender for the upcoming French Open.

**News Article:**

**Paolini Keeps Italian Tennis Dream Alive, Reaches Rome Semifinals**

**Rome, Italy** – Jasmine Paolini is carrying the hopes of a nation as she advanced to the semifinals of the Internazionali BNL d’Italia in Rome. The world No. 5 battled past Diana Schnaider in a thrilling 6-7 (1), 6-4, 6-2 victory on Tuesday, becoming the only Italian player to progress beyond the second round.

The home crowd support has been a major factor in Paolini’s success, fueled by the resurgence of Italian tennis, including ATP star Jannik Sinner. Paolini acknowledges the importance of Italian tennis legends, reflecting on the upcoming 15th anniversary of Francesca Schiavone’s historic Roland Garros win which inspired her.

“It’s crazy. It’s really crazy. I really enjoy it,” she said of the fervent support. “Tennis is getting more popular in Italy. That’s really great for our sport, for us as athletes and tennis players.”

Paolini’s strong performance positions her as a contender for the upcoming French Open, with the potential to become only the third Italian woman to win a Grand Slam singles title.

She will face either Peyton Stearns or Elina Svitolina in the semifinals on Thursday, with a nation watching and hoping she can bring home the title.

Read More