Paolini delighted despite defeat

Jasmine Paolini was no match for Iga Swiatek as she was steamrolled in the French Open final on Saturday, but happiness prevailed at the end of the Italian's unexpected run in Paris.

The 12th seed's career took a big upturn this season when she won the Dubai title — one of the tournaments just below Grand Slam level — and at Roland Garros, the 28-year-old beat fourth seed Elena Rybakina on her way to the final.

While others have crumbled under pressure in their first Grand Slam final, the diminutive Paolini showed no signs of nerves in a bright start, as she broke serve for 2-1 with a smile on her face.

Swiatek, however, had too much poise and pace for the Tuscan, who lost 11 of the remaining 12 games on a sunbathed Court Philippe Chatrier.

"I tried to play my best, but I have never played a player with that intensity before," Paolini told the post-match news conference.

"She already won four titles, and she's 23. These numbers are unbelievable."

Paolini will climb to seventh in the world rankings on Monday.

"I'm really happy. It's a strange feeling. I just lost the final, but I think I have to be happy with these two weeks, and my new ranking," she said.

With the doubles final still to play with compatriot Sara Errani on Sunday, Paolini is enjoying herself.

"Who knows what the future holds, or what my next dream is," she said.

Reuters