Jasmine Paolini’s remarkable 2024 season has been adorned with an array of accolades, including two Grand Slam runner-up finishes, an Olympic gold medal in doubles, and a Top 5 WTA ranking. However, one elusive memento remains on her wish list: a selfie with Rafael Nadal.
Paolini’s quest for a complete set of selfies with the Big 3 began at previous Olympics, where she captured photos with Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer. In Paris, she and doubles partner Sara Errani achieved their goal of winning a medal, but Paolini’s attempt to secure a photo with Nadal fell short.
Fate has granted Paolini a second opportunity in Malaga, where the inaugural Billie Jean King Cup and Davis Cup Finals are being held. Leading the Italian Billie Jean King Cup team, Paolini faces a formidable challenge in their pursuit of a fifth title. Meanwhile, Nadal will compete alongside Carlos Alcaraz and the Spanish team in his final career tournament.
Against Japan in the quarterfinals, Paolini’s unwavering determination propelled Italy to a 2-1 comeback victory. Her win against Moyuka Uchijima and subsequent doubles triumph with Errani sealed the tie.
Paolini’s relentless pursuit of her scrapbook goal was evident when she rewarded herself with a front-row seat to one of Nadal’s practices on her day off. Finally, she managed to capture a precious photo, albeit from the entrance to the court where Nadal trained.
“Step by step, getting closer to that legendary selfie with Rafa… but not done yet!” Paolini wrote on Instagram, sharing a snapshot with Nadal visible in the background.
Whether Paolini will secure her perfect shot remains to be seen. However, her next mission is to guide Italy past world No. 2 Iga Swiatek and Poland in Monday’s semifinals.
