'I'm trying not to have too many expectations' - Jasmine Paolini on entering the Rome Open as one of the favorites

After her breakout season last year, Jasmine Paolini will be competing at the 2025 Rome Open in her home nation as one of the players to beat this year.

The 29-year old played the best tennis of her career during the 2024 season, where she finished runner-up at two consecutive Grand Slam events (Roland Garros and Wimbledon). Furthermore, Paolini would win the gold medal in doubles at the Olympic Games, in addition to leading Italy to victory at the Billie Jean King Cup.

Paolini would like to temper expectations

The World No.5 won the biggest title of her career last year at the WTA 1000 event in Dubai, and returns to Rome as a different player. Paolini fell in the opening round of last year's event, and is aware she has a target on her back as a favorite at this year's edition.

"'m trying not to compare [it] to the last year," said Paolini in her press conference. "I'm trying to take the positive things from the last year... I was really consistent. And I think that the experience that I made last year makes me a better player.
"But [I'm] trying not to have too many expectations, because, I mean, it's normal, but trying to keep them low and trying to focus on the positive things, which is more confidence."

The home hero is slated to face rising New Zealand star Lulu Sun in her opening round match in Rome. Should Paolini make it to the quarterfinals, she has a potential clash against World No.1 Aryna Sabalenka.