Jasmine Paolini, an Italian of Ghanaian descent’s rise to prominence has brought her extensive background to the spotlight ahead of the 2024 Wimbledon Women’s Final against Barbara Krejcikova on Saturday, July 13.
This comes after she missed out on winning the Roland Garros after losing to Iga Swiatek in the French Open this year. The 28 year old was born in Italy to a Polish mother who has Ghanaian roots through her paternal side.
She beat Donna Vekic in the semifinals to become the first Italian female player to qualify to the Wimbledon final and is aiming to win her first Grand Slam. In the wake of her stunning exploits, an interview on her background at Roland Garros has gained traction.
“I am proud to have different blood in my body. Of course, I feel Italian because I was born in Italy. My mum is Polish, but my grandfather is from Ghana and I think I am fast because of Ghana” she said.
Paolini is set to compete in the Women’s Doubles at the 2024 Olympics in Paris with Italian player Sara Errani.