Get ready to witness history in the making! Jasmine Paolini has punched her ticket to the WTA Finals Riyadh, becoming the seventh singles qualifier after a season that’s nothing short of extraordinary. But here’s where it gets even more impressive: Paolini didn’t just stop at singles—she’s also qualified in doubles, marking her second consecutive year competing in both draws at this prestigious event. And this is the part most people miss: her journey to the top included a groundbreaking title win on home soil in Rome, ending a 40-year drought for Italian women’s singles champions there. Talk about a storybook season!
Paolini’s qualification was sealed this week when she reached the semifinals of the WTA 500 AUX · Ningbo Open, leaving just one singles spot up for grabs. Joining her in Riyadh’s star-studded lineup are heavyweights like Aryna Sabalenka, Iga Swiatek, and defending champ Coco Gauff. At 29, Paolini is proving that age is just a number, as she continues to dominate both singles and doubles circuits alongside her partner, Sara Errani.
But here’s the controversial part: With only one singles spot remaining, the tennis world is buzzing about who will claim it—Mirra Andreeva or Elena Rybakina? Both have had stellar seasons, but only one will make the cut. Who do you think deserves it? Let’s debate in the comments!
Paolini’s 2025 campaign has been nothing short of remarkable. Beyond her historic Rome victory, she reached the final in Cincinnati, falling to Swiatek, and notched four additional semifinal appearances at WTA 1000 events, including the Miami Open and Wuhan Open. These results catapulted her up the PIF WTA Race to the Finals Leaderboard, solidifying her place among the elite.
The WTA Finals Riyadh, presented by PIF, will take place from November 1-8, 2025, featuring the top 8 singles players and doubles teams. Here’s the twist: if a Grand Slam winner ranks between No. 8 and No. 20, they snag the 8th spot. The event follows a round-robin format, culminating in the singles champion lifting the Billie Jean King Trophy and the doubles champs securing the Martina Navratilova Trophy. Talk about high stakes!
For those eager to witness this tennis spectacle, tickets are still available. Will you be there to see Paolini and the world’s best battle it out? Click the link to secure your spot and be part of history. And don’t forget to share your thoughts: Is Paolini the dark horse to watch in Riyadh? Or will the favorites dominate? The court is yours—comment below!
