In a stunning twist that has sent shockwaves through the tennis world, Jasmine Paolini announced her immediate retirement from professional tennis at the age of 29—just hours after clinching the most significant title of her career: the 2025 Internazionali BNL d’Italia in Rome.

With tears in her eyes but a calm and steady voice, Paolini stood in front of a crowd that was still celebrating her victory and delivered the news: “My family needs me now more than ever. This is the moment to go home.”

A Fairytale Ending — or a Sudden Exit?

Paolini’s decision comes on the heels of a magical run at the Foro Italico, where she defeated several top-10 players, including world No. 3 Elena Rybakina in a thrilling three-set final. The match was hailed by commentators as one of the most emotionally charged and technically brilliant performances of her career.

After lifting the trophy—her first WTA 1000 title—few could have expected what would follow just minutes later. In the post-match interview, as fans prepared to hear her thoughts on the next Grand Slam or potential Top 5 ambitions, she instead announced her retirement.

“This is not an easy choice, but it’s the right one,” she said. “I have achieved more than I ever dreamed of. But right now, my heart tells me I need to be with my family.”

The Tennis World Reacts with Shock and Support

Players, fans, and commentators alike were left speechless by the announcement. Social media quickly filled with messages of love and confusion, with many fans asking: “Why now?”

Top WTA players responded quickly. Coco Gauff tweeted:

“So much respect for Jasmine. A champion on and off the court. You’ll be missed.”

Aryna Sabalenka also shared her thoughts on Instagram:

“Rome was yours. You inspired so many. Take care of what matters most.”

Even legends of the sport, such as Chris Evert and Martina Navratilova, chimed in, calling the decision “courageous” and “inspiring,” even as fans tried to understand the full story behind it.

Behind the Decision: A Private Battle?

While Paolini did not elaborate on the details, Italian media reports suggest that a personal family matter may have played a major role in her sudden departure from tennis. Sources close to her camp have mentioned ongoing health issues involving a close family member, though nothing has been officially confirmed.

Throughout her career, Paolini has often spoken about the importance of family. In earlier interviews, she described her parents as her “biggest source of strength” and her home in Tuscany as her “safe haven.”

“If you know Jasmine, you know she’s always put family first,” said a close friend and former coach. “She’s someone who never chased fame. She chased fulfillment. And maybe she’s found it now.”

A Career Cut Short — But Not Forgotten

Paolini’s career was a story of perseverance, resilience, and steady growth. Often underestimated due to her height and low profile, she rose through the ranks with pure grit and strategic brilliance. From ITF tournaments in the early 2010s to WTA titles and deep Grand Slam runs, she quietly became one of Italy’s most accomplished players in the post-Pennetta era.

Her Rome victory was not only a personal triumph, but also a historic win for Italian tennis. She became the first Italian woman since 2014 to win in Rome, reigniting national pride and dreams of a new golden generation.

Now, fans are left wondering what might have been.

What’s Next for Jasmine Paolini?

As of now, Paolini says she has no plans to coach or work in media—at least not immediately. “I want to live a normal life for a while,” she said in her final press conference. “I want to cook dinner with my mom, walk my dog, and just be Jasmine—not Jasmine the tennis player.”

She didn’t rule out a return to the sport someday. “Who knows? Maybe one day I’ll be back in another role. But right now, this is goodbye.”

Fans Respond: A Mix of Tears and Gratitude

Outside the stadium in Rome, fans held handmade banners that read “Grazie, Jasmine!” and “Sempre nei nostri cuori.” One young girl, wearing a Paolini headband, told reporters:

“I wanted to be like her. And now, I want to be like her even more—not just a champion, but someone who listens to their heart.”

A Legacy Beyond Trophies

Though her professional journey ends earlier than expected, Paolini leaves a legacy far deeper than numbers or titles. She has become a symbol of dedication, humility, and quiet strength—a reminder that sometimes, stepping away at your peak is the boldest move of all.

As the tennis world bids farewell to one of its most beloved underdogs-turned-champions, one thing is certain: Jasmine Paolini may have left the court, but she’ll never leave the hearts of her fans.