Jasmine Paolini reflects on journey after defeat in Wimbledon final: ‘I’m scared to dream too much’
The Italian missed out on a first Grand Slam title after a three-set loss against Barbora Krejcikova
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Jasmine Paolini was in a reflective mood after her narrow defeat to Barbora Krejcikova in the Wimbledon final on Saturday.
Paolini was the higher seed – seven to 31 – in the women’s singles final and was chasing a first Grand Slam, five weeks after missing out to Iga Swiatek in the French Open.
The Italian fought back valiantly in the second-set to force a decider but, ultimately, one break of serve in the third set in the Czech’s favour was enough for Krejcikova to claim the title.
“I have to accept today and work hard, but today it’s tough to speak,” she said in her post-match press conference.
“I started bad. I took some time to try to relax and come back in the second set but I missed a lot of shots, she was serving really good.
“I still have to realise that the final in Wimbledon is an amazing thing. It’s been an incredible year, I hope to continue with this level of tennis. I’m going to try and work and keep this level, today it’s tough, I’m disappointed.”
The 28-year-old, who has proven popular with the Wimbledon crowds this fortnight, was then asked what she wants to “dream of” next, with the Paris Olympics and US Open on the horizon this summer.
“I don’t know, sometimes I’m a bit scared to dream too much,” she said. “I have the chance to do great things, I don’t know what to dream right now.
“Today I was dreaming to hold the trophy, I’m just enjoying the position I’m in right now. I have to be happy with the results but also a little bit disappointed.”
Krejcikova held her nerve in a tense final game to seal her second Grand Slam singles title after her success at Roland Garros three years ago.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments