Jasmine Paolini Appoints Sara Errani as Full-Time Coach
Jasmine Paolini has taken a significant step in her tennis career by appointing her doubles partner, Sara Errani, as her full-time coach. This decision comes as both players are focusing on their joint goal of qualifying for the 2024 Olympics and continuing their successful partnership on the court.
Successful Partnership and Achievements
They initially teamed up for doubles competitions, beginning their journey with a victory at the 2023 Monastir tournament. Their collaboration has resulted in an impressive string of accomplishments, including:
- A doubles title at the Linz tournament earlier in 2023
- A triumph at the WTA 1000 event in Rome
- A remarkable run at Roland Garros where they finished as runners-up
- Securing gold for Italy during the Paris Games
The momentum did not wane, as Paolini and Errani continued to dominate the doubles scene, grabbing another WTA 1000 title at the China Open just two months later. In the current season, their successful streak continued with victories at WTA 1000 events in Doha, Rome, and Beijing, culminating in their first Grand Slam title together as they clinched the French Open.
Transitioning to Singles Play
Recognizing their compatibility, the two decided to apply their teamwork to singles play. In a recent interview, Paolini expressed her excitement about having Errani guide her tactical approach on the tour, saying:
“I’ll have two people this year: Danilo Pizzorno and her [Sara Errani], who will be in charge of the tactical part, which is on another level.”
While the rising star has logged commendable performances on her own, including winning the Cincinnati Open in 2024 and reaching finals at last year’s French Open and Wimbledon, she aims to elevate her game further under Errani’s guidance. The World No. 8 recently conquered the Italian Open but noted her struggles at Majors, with her best result being a fourth-round finish at this year’s French Open.
Personal Growth and Future Aspirations
Paolini reflected on her journey, sharing insights on personal growth and mental resilience:
“Over the last three years, I’ve grown as a player and as a person; I have clearer ideas on the court. I always try to move forward and forgive myself. Tennis is a sport where you have to forget quickly.”
Errani, who has been in the professional circuit since 2002, previously indicated that she would retire if she won an Olympic medal but now finds herself motivated to continue competing due to their success. A seasoned veteran with nine Grand Slam titles in doubles and mixed doubles and a career-high singles ranking of World No. 5, she possesses the expertise to be a formidable mentor for Paolini, potentially guiding her to major championships in the future.
