ROME: Jasmine Paolini launched her Italian Open title defence on Thursday by battling back from a set down to beat France’s Leolia Jeanjean 6-7 (4/7), 6-2, 6-4.
Home hope Paolini is bidding to become the first Italian woman to retain the title in Rome, but started slowly at the Foro Italico.
The world number eight turned on the afterburners after going behind following an error-strewn first set, comfortably turning around the match to secure a spot in the third round, where she will meet Elise M
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Paolini is such a fighter on clay. Her defensive game is absolutely perfect for the slow Rome courts.
Jeanjean pushed her hard in that first set. Good competitive match to start her title defense.
Italian Open always produces exciting tennis. Hope Paolini can go all the way again this year.
Clay court season is the best part of the tennis calendar. Paolini’s movement is a joy to watch.