MIAMI – Jasmine Paolini has demonstrated remarkable consistency throughout her breakout 2024 season. Her impressive run included six consecutive victories on Roland Garros`s clay courts and another six on Wimbledon`s grass. Despite finishing as runner-up in both Grand Slam finals, Paolini`s performance has been a revelation, propelling her into the Top 10 for the first time at 28 years old.
As Paolini anticipated, maintaining that level of success has presented new challenges. She described this phase as a “new story,” acknowledging that her recent achievements mean she no longer has the advantage of being an underestimated player.
Miami: Draws | Scores | Order of play
Ons Jabeur`s retirement in their third-round match in Miami advanced Paolini to the round of 16 for the fourth time this season. Previously, she had been defeated at this stage in tournaments in Doha, Dubai, and Indian Wells.
This Monday at the Miami Open, Paolini reversed this trend with a resolute comeback victory against Naomi Osaka, winning 3-6, 6-4, 6-4 in 2 hours and 15 minutes. The No. 6 seed will now face the winner of the match between No. 3 Coco Gauff and Magda Linette in the quarterfinals.
This marks Paolini`s first streak of three consecutive wins this year. She also improved her record against former WTA No. 1 ranked players to 3-8, with her other two wins also occurring in 2024 against Angelique Kerber and Karolina Pliskova. Additionally, this was her first victory in five attempts against a former Grand Slam champion.
Paolini`s resilience was evident right from the start. The first game alone lasted nine minutes, featuring eight deuces and five break points which Paolini successfully defended. Eventually, an errant forehand from Osaka gave Paolini the opening game.
Throughout the match, Paolini impressively saved 12 out of 15 break points and capitalized on three of her five break point opportunities.
Osaka has stated that her return to tennis is not aimed at being just an average or slightly above-average player. Fifteen months after her maternity leave, she is starting to demonstrate glimpses of her former top form.
However, Osaka acknowledged that Paolini being the first Top 10 player she has faced this year played a role in the match`s outcome.
“Perhaps experience was a factor,” Osaka commented post-match. “I haven`t played many matches against top-ranked players recently. Her playing style was somewhat surprising, partly due to her stature. I underestimated her power.”
The match was incredibly tight, as reflected in the statistics. Paolini recorded 28 winners and 39 unforced errors, while Osaka had 29 winners and 41 unforced errors. Interestingly, Osaka won slightly more points overall, 101 to 97.
(Further updates to follow…)
