“She keeps repeating the tactic”: Jasmine Paolini leans on Errani ahead of Rome campaign

Tuesday, 05 May 2026 at 02:30

Paolini and Errani holding their fourth WTA 1000 trophy together

Jasmine Paolini and Sara Errani head into the Rome tournament with a rare dual responsibility, as they defend their doubles title while Paolini carries the pressure of a singles crown won last year against Coco Gauff.

The collaboration between the two Italians extends into singles preparation, with Errani actively shaping tactical planning and reinforcing match structure in the build-up to competition.

In singles, Paolini’s profile has shifted significantly over the past season. Her breakthrough run culminated in the Rome title, where she defeated Coco Gauff in the final, establishing herself as a top-level competitor on clay and one of the leading Italian players on the WTA Tour. That result has increased expectations heading into the current edition.

Errani’s role, however, has evolved into something more integrated than a typical doubles partnership. The former Roland Garros finalist is now part of Paolini’s broader competitive structure, contributing directly to match preparation and tactical planning even outside doubles competition. That overlap has become a defining feature of their Rome campaign.

Errani’s tactical presence extends into singles preparation

The most distinctive element of Paolini’s setup is Errani’s influence in singles preparation, where tactical repetition and structured communication form a consistent pre-match routine.

“I’m more nervous than excited,” said Errani, as Paolini added. “I’m thinking about being focused, because if not she’s going to tell me, ‘you are not focused.’ She keeps repeating the tactic and what we have to do on court, so I try to at least appear focused.”

Errani confirmed the importance of communication in their preparation, emphasising her preference for detailed tactical discussions prior to matches. Her role is not limited to doubles coordination but extends into shaping Paolini’s singles approach in real time. “I love tactics, so I try to talk a lot with her about what we need to do on the court and these kind of things.”

Dual role: defending doubles champions and singles pressure in Rome

The Rome context intensifies this collaboration. Paolini enters as defending singles champion after her victory over Gauff back in 2025 final, while both players return as reigning doubles winners following their triumph last year.

“Winning Rome in singles and doubles of course was an amazing feeling,” claimed Paolini. “I remember on Saturday I won my singles and I was so happy my family was there and the day after I stepped on court with Sara and it was a really tough match.”

“I remember we were 4–0 down in the first set and 4–0 down in the second set, but we won,” Paolini said. “It was an amazing feeling. The stadium was full of people cheering for us and I have great memories.”

The effectiveness of the partnership is rooted in contrast. Paolini brings pace, energy and crowd engagement, while Errani provides tactical discipline and match management. That combination has proven particularly effective on clay, where point construction and patience often decide outcomes.

Paolini highlighted Errani’s competitive identity as a defining influence, particularly her ability to maintain intensity regardless of scoreline or momentum shifts. When asked about her favourite player on tour, Paolini was direct in her response. “Easy—Sara,” Paolini said with a smile. “Because she’s fighting on every ball. She stays there until the last point.”

Errani, meanwhile, emphasised Paolini’s emotional connection to Italian crowds and her ability to elevate performance in domestic conditions. “On the court, your power and your good energy. Every time the crowd is for you, so this is unbelievable for me. Off the court, you’re very funny—you make me happy all the day.”

Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist

Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.

His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.

In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.

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