Tennis star Jasmine Paolini. © AFP / HENRY NICHOLLS

A painful separation for Italy's tennis heroine

Alongside Jannik Sinner, Jasmine Paolini is the biggest star in Italian tennis. But now the exceptional player has announced a surprising split.

March 31, 2025

From: det

Jasmine Paolini has had some crazy months. The 29-year-old from Tuscany rose to become a truly world-class player in 2024, reaching the finals at Wimbledon and the French Open, and also winning the gold medal in doubles at the Paris Olympic Games. Today, Paolini is ranked 6th in the world and, alongside Jannik Sinner, is the leading face of the Italian tennis boom.

This is precisely why a message Paolini shared on social media on Monday came as a surprise. The Italian has parted ways with her long-time coach, Renzo Furlan. "After ten extraordinary years together, I want to express my sincere gratitude to Renzo for everything he has achieved," Paolini's Instagram post begins.

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"We've had a crazy journey and experienced unforgettable moments, like the incredible year 2024. Renzo was a fundamental figure in my development, both as a player and as a person. Everything I learned from him will stay with me forever," said Paolini, who added: "I am deeply grateful for the time he dedicated to me, for his energy, and for all the sacrifices he made, often away from his home and family. I have great appreciation and deep respect for him—for his professionalism, his passion, and the values ​​he instilled in me over the years."

Will the dream duo come true now?

Will Sara Errani (left) and Jasmine Paolini soon be joining forces? © AFP / PATRICIA DE MELO MOREIRA

Paolini didn't reveal the reason behind this split. Who will succeed Renzo Furlan is also still open. Speculation is rampant in the Italian media, and one name keeps coming up: Sara Errani. The 37-year-old won the Olympic gold medal with Paolini last summer and otherwise maintains a good relationship with her younger colleague. It remains to be seen whether this dream duo will soon join forces.