CINCINNATI — Rising tennis star Jasmine Paolini has opened up about her difficult decision to part ways with both of her coaches mid-season, leaving her without a mentor ahead of the Western & Southern Open. The Italian player, currently ranked in the WTA top 30, made the revelation during a press conference after her first-round victory at the Cincinnati Open.
Paolini, who has enjoyed a breakout 2024 season with strong performances at Roland Garros and Wimbledon, explained that the coaching changes were necessary for her continued growth. "It wasn't an easy choice, but sometimes you have to make tough decisions to keep improving," the 28-year-old said, addressing questions about her unexpected coaching shakeup.
A Season of Change
The coaching departures mark the second major change in Paolini's team this year. She began 2024 working with long-time mentor Renzo Furlan before bringing on additional coach Diego Veronelli in April. Both coaches were let go within weeks of each other during the North American hardcourt swing. Paolini confirmed the separations were amicable but necessary:
- "We reached a point where we wanted different things from my game"
- "The chemistry wasn't there like it needed to be"
- "I need to take responsibility for my own development"
The Immediate Impact
Playing without a dedicated coach presents immediate challenges for Paolini as she prepares for the US Open. During her Cincinnati opener, she relied on advice from her physiotherapist and occasional input from fellow players. "It's not ideal, but I know my game better than anyone," she told reporters after the match.
Searching for Solutions
Paolini revealed she's considering several options for her coaching future, including:
- Working with a temporary consultant through the US Open
- Joining forces with another player's coaching team
- Taking time to find the perfect long-term fit
The Italian admitted the timing isn't perfect with the final Grand Slam of the year approaching, but remained optimistic: "Maybe this is exactly what I need right now - to trust myself completely. Sometimes too many voices can confuse rather than help. This is my chance to really listen to my own instincts on court."
Peers Offer Support
Several WTA players have reached out to Paolini with advice and encouragement. World No. 1 Iga Świątek, who famously went through multiple coaching changes early in her career, shared: "These transitions are never easy, but Jasmine has such a strong work ethic and clear vision for her game. She'll come through this period even stronger. Sometimes you need to go through these phases to find what truly works for you."
Paolini's current situation mirrors that of several top players who have made mid-season coaching changes. Just last year, Coco Gauff split with Diego Moyano before teaming up with Brad Gilbert ahead of her US Open triumph. The Italian hopes her gamble pays off similarly: "I'm not afraid of this challenge. Every great player goes through moments where they have to bet on themselves. This is my moment to do that."
Looking Ahead
With the US Open just weeks away, Paolini faces a race against time to establish a new coaching structure. Tournament director Stacey Allaster confirmed the WTA offers player support services that Paolini may utilize: "We have resources available for players in transition periods. Jasmine knows our team is here to help in any way we can as she navigates this professional decision."
Despite the uncertainty, Paolini remains focused on her immediate goals in Cincinnati: "Right now my job is to compete here, to give everything on court. The coaching situation will work itself out in time. I didn't come this far to let distractions affect my performance when it matters most." The world No. 28 faces a tough second-round match against either Madison Keys or Sloane Stephens as she continues her unexpected solo journey.
As the tennis world watches how this bold move plays out, Paolini's courage in prioritizing her long-term development over short-term stability has drawn praise from analysts. ESPN's Pam Shriver noted: "This could be the making of Jasmine Paolini. We've seen many players take control of their careers in this way and emerge as more complete competitors. It's a risk, but at this stage of her career, it might be exactly the risk she needs to take."