Two reasons to smile for Jasmine Paolini, who reached the Wimbledon quarter-finals while also experiencing the thrill of playing on Center Court in front of her all-time idol, Roger Federer.
«Entering the Centrale is something special, there is nothing better than playing tennis in this fantastic atmosphere», said the Tuscan tennis player after her three-set success over Alexandra Eala. Then the thought turned to the Swiss, present in the stands: «I thank him for being here, he was my idol. I said to myself: “Stay focused, don’t think he’s watching this match.” This tournament is so special for the audience too.”
«The year has been tough, but now I’m on the right path»
Paolini then looked back over the last few months, marked by fluctuating results and constant work with his staff. «The year was tough, there were difficult moments, but we continued to work with our team who helped me a lot. Match after match I feel better, now I think I’m finally on the right path. Now it’s important to stay positive.”
The 0-6 at the debut and the rebirth
The Italian also returned to the heavy 0-6 suffered in the opening set of the tournament, explaining how she managed to react. «I had played very few matches in the last few weeks, after that set I said to myself: “Ok, it can’t get any worse than this”. I stayed there, game after game, the serve helped me a little.”
Finally, a reflection on grass, a surface on which he seems to have found the best sensations: «Grass is a strange surface, maybe you can hate it, but when you know it and play well you want to go back to it. Now I hope I can have another good match.”