Jasmine Paolini at the WTA Finals in Riyadh

Defeat against Sabalenka

Jasmine Paolini suffered a defeat in her second match at the WTA Finals in Riyadh. In the Purple Group challenge, the 28-year-old from Bagni di Lucca, currently no. 4 in the world, put Aryna Sabalenka in difficulty, obtaining two set points in the second set. However, she had to surrender to the ranking leader, who won with the score of 6-3 7-5 after an hour and a half of match. This victory allows Sabalenka to access the semifinals, having already won against Elene Rybakina.

Paolini’s performance

During the first set, Paolini managed to recover from an initial deficit of 0-4, showing great determination. In the second set, after breaking Sabalenka’s serve, she took the lead at 2-0. The Belarusian reacted, but Paolini continued to apply pressure and reached 5-4, having the chance to close the set.

“I fought but I didn’t win today,” Paolini shared on Instagram after the loss. Sabalenka saved both set points in a very close game and eventually closed the match at 5-5 to take the final set.

The next challenge

For Paolini, the challenge against Zheng Qinwen on Wednesday is now crucial: a victory will be enough to qualify as the second of the Viola group. The Tuscan tennis player will return to the court tomorrow at 11 Italian time to play a doubles match with Sara Errani against the Canadians Gabriela Dabrovski and Erin Routliffe.

Jannik Sinner coming to Turin

Turning to men’s tennis, Jannik Sinner is preparing to face the ATP Finals, which will start next Sunday in Turin. After a warm welcome from the fans, Sinner is receiving demonstrations of affection from the people of the Piedmontese capital. “See you soon,” Sinner told his supporters, as he prepares for physical tests at J-Medical and two training sessions in the coming days at Circolo della Stampa-Sporting. With the arrival of the ATP Finals and the ongoing competition for Paolini, Italian tennis continues to shine on the international scene.