Jasmine Paolini said she was "scared to dream too much" after the bitter disappointment of losing the Wimbledon final to Barbora Krejcikova – weeks after she lost the title match at the French Open.
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The seventh-ranked Italian recovered from a shaky start to level against her Czech opponent but ended up sinking to a 6-2, 2-6, 6-4 defeat on Centre Court.
Centre of attention 📸#Wimbledon pic.twitter.com/xfHvLunhN2
— Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) July 13, 2024
At Roland Garros last month she lost the final to world No 1 Iga Swiatek, winning just three games.
Despite the disappointments, it has been a remarkable rise for Paolini, the first Italian woman to reach a Wimbledon singles final.
The 28-year-old had never been beyond the second round of a Grand Slam before reaching the fourth round of the Australian Open earlier this year.
In the new rankings next week she will be No 5 in the world even though she ended last season down in 30th spot.
Paolini said she was still aiming at "great things" despite her painful losses in Paris and London.
An absolute joy, right until the end 😍#Wimbledon | @JasminePaolini pic.twitter.com/BNovAYwoJM
— Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) July 13, 2024
"Sometimes I'm a little bit scared to dream too much," she said. "I have to say that. I don't know.
"I'm going back, trying to practise, to stay in the present, as I said many times. This is the goal for me, my team, to try to keep this level as much as possible.
"If I keep this level, I think I can have the chance to do great things."
She described her feelings as bittersweet.
"Today I was dreaming to hold the trophy, but it didn't go well," she said. "I'm just enjoying the position where I am right now, five in the world. It's unbelievable, honestly.
"I just did two finals in two Grand Slams. I have to be also happy with the results. Also a little bit disappointed."
"I have to keep smiling" 😄
— Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) July 13, 2024
Even in defeat, Jasmine Paolini can't help but smile 🥹
A new favourite at SW19, we can't wait to see again soon, Jasmine ❤️#Wimbledon pic.twitter.com/FBDFjgAIbY