Jasmine Paolini paired with Sera Errani to defeat Veronika Kudermetova, and Elise Mertens 6-4, 7-5 on Sunday to win the Italian Open doubles titles, becoming the first woman since Monica Seles in 1990 to win the tournament’s singles and doubles titles.
Paolini, and Sara Errani produced a dominant performance in their country to brush aside the duo of Veronika Kudermetova and Elise Mertens in style.
It was a record-breaking outing for Paolini who followed up her impressive over Coco Gauff in the singles final on Saturday with another stunning showing 24 hours later.
She became the first Italian woman to win the Rome singles title since Raffaella Reggi in 1985.
The 29-year-old also became the third woman since 2000 to win her first clay-court title in Rome, joining Jelena Dokic (2001) and Serena Williams (2002) in that exclusive list.
Paolini was excited to win the title, fulfilling her childhood dream in front of her home supporters.
She said: “It doesn’t seem real to me. I came here as a kid to see this tournament, but winning it and holding up this trophy wasn’t even in my dreams.
“It’s pure joy to have this trophy in my hands here in Rome at home. Really happy about it and grateful, as well. I’m enjoying the moment. It’s an amazing one.
“The crowd has been incredible. It’s been two incredible weeks, and it’s not finished yet.”
The victory will see Paolini move up in the rankings to fourth on Monday, improving her position in the draw for the French Open, where she finished as a runner-up last year.
