Jasmine Paolini outlines how she feels whenever she practices with Aryna Sabalenka and what is ‘amazing’ about her game

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Jasmine Paolini outlined how she feels practicing and playing against one of her toughest opponents Aryna Sabalenka.

The Belarusian has established herself as the WTA’s best player and added two more Grand Slams to her name by winning the 2024 Australian Open and US Open.

Aryna Sabalenka has overwhelmed opponents with her power, in addition to the added finesse in her game and improved mental toughness.

The 26-year-old will enter the upcoming edition of the Grand Slam looking to triumph at Melbourne Park for the third successive year.

What did Jasmine Paolini say about practicing with Aryna Sabalenka?

While Sabalenka is regarded by many as the player of the 2024 season, fans were shocked to see Jasmine Paolini left off the list for the WTA’s Most Improved Player of the Season.

The Italian surged up the WTA rankings to number four in the world and reached the finals of the French Open and Wimbledon.

But if she wants to win the 2025 Australian Open, she may have to overcome Sabalenka, who she practiced with on Wednesday.

Commenting on her rival’s game, Paolini told reporters: “I think she’s serving so well. Also returning. She’s hitting the ball so strong. I practiced with her two days ago. Actually I like to practice with her. We always have fun. It’s good practice for me.

“Yeah, I think the way she’s serving the first and the second serve, as well, it’s amazing. I think she’s playing well. She’s confident. Also she’s playing good important points.

“I remember the match in the WTA Finals, she was playing better than me in the important points. So, yeah, I think she’s an amazing player. Yeah, I think the key to her strength is the serve, for sure, the power of the shots she has.”

What is Jasmine Paolini’s head-to-head record against Aryna Sabalenka?

Paolini has played against Sabalenka on five occasions.

The Olympic women’s doubles champion has won two occasions, the first coming back in 2017 at the Ilkey Open.

That day Paolini came from a set down to win 4-6, 7-5, 7-6(2). Her last victory against Sabalenka came at the 2022 Indian Wells Masters, which also came in three sets.

Sabalenka gained some revenge at the 2023 China Open before taking the lead in their rivalry with victory in the round robin stage of the 2024 WTA Finals.