Italian-Ghanaian born Jasmine Paolini shook off some early nerves to sail into the third round of the Australian Open with a 6-2, 6-3 win over Mexico’s Renata Zarazua.
The energetic world number four was playing on Rod Laver Arena for the first time and dropped her serve in the opening game.
Paolini followed Jannik Sinner on to Melbourne Park’s centre court and served notice she could match her fellow Italian’s success there last year when he won his maiden Grand Slam title.
In 2024, Paolini became the first Italian woman to make the last 16 at all four Grand Slams in the Open Era.
“I don’t know why, but maybe I was nervous, you know, first time playing here and it’s an amazing court,” Paolini said.
“Renata is a really tough player. The ball is coming back so many times. But I think at the end, I managed to close out the match and I’m really happy about it,” said Paolini, after polishing off her opponent in 1hr 16min.
Paolini, ranked No 4, will face Ukrainian Elina Svitolina, the No 28 seed, next.
