“Jasmine Paolini Opens Up: Practicing With Aryna Sabalenka Is an Eye-Opening Experience”
In the world of professional tennis, the court often becomes a stage not just for competition but for camaraderie, inspiration, and the chance to learn from peers. Jasmine Paolini, one of Italy’s rising stars, has found herself on the receiving end of some invaluable lessons while sharing practice sessions with none other than Aryna Sabalenka, the Belarusian powerhouse and one of the most dominant players in the WTA.
In a candid revelation, Paolini shared her thoughts on practicing with Sabalenka, offering a fascinating glimpse into how these sessions challenge and inspire her. She also highlighted what she finds “amazing” about Sabalenka’s game, emphasizing the qualities that set the world number one apart.
The Journey of Jasmine Paolini
Before delving into her experiences with Sabalenka, it’s essential to appreciate Paolini’s rise in the tennis world. At just 5’4”, Paolini has often been underestimated in a sport dominated by taller, more physically imposing players. But what she lacks in height, she more than makes up for with grit, speed, and tactical intelligence.
Over the past few seasons, Paolini has steadily climbed the WTA rankings, earning her place among the elite with victories against higher-ranked opponents and deep runs in prominent tournaments. Her relentless work ethic and never-say-die attitude have made her a player to watch, and her ability to learn and adapt has been key to her success.
Practicing With Aryna Sabalenka: A Unique Challenge
Practicing with a player of Sabalenka’s caliber is no small feat, as Paolini revealed. “It’s always an intense experience,” Paolini admitted with a laugh. “Aryna hits the ball so hard and so cleanly, you feel the pressure from the very first shot. It’s like you have to bring your A-game just to keep up in practice.”
Sabalenka’s game is characterized by her thunderous groundstrokes, booming serve, and aggressive court presence. For Paolini, stepping onto the court with her is both a challenge and an opportunity. “What’s amazing about her game is how she combines power with precision. She doesn’t just hit hard—she hits smart. Her ability to find angles and maintain such high intensity is something I’ve learned a lot from,” Paolini said.
The Mental Battle of Facing Power
One of the standout aspects of practicing with Sabalenka, Paolini explained, is the mental resilience it demands. “When you’re on the other side of the net and Aryna is firing forehands and backhands, you realize it’s not just about your physical game. You have to stay mentally sharp, too,” she noted.
Sabalenka’s relentless aggression can push any opponent to their limits, and for Paolini, these practice sessions are a test of her ability to absorb pressure. “It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when someone is hitting so hard, but I’ve learned to stay calm and focus on my own strengths. That’s one of the biggest lessons I’ve taken away from practicing with her,” she added.
What Makes Sabalenka ‘Amazing’
When asked to pinpoint what stands out most about Sabalenka’s game, Paolini didn’t hesitate. “Her consistency is incredible,” she said. “You’d think that someone who plays with so much power might be prone to making errors, but Aryna has this amazing ability to control her shots even at that speed. It’s like she’s found the perfect balance between aggression and precision.”
Paolini also praised Sabalenka’s physicality, noting how it sets her apart. “She’s incredibly strong, but it’s not just about raw power. She moves so well for someone of her size. Watching her cover the court and transition from defense to offense so seamlessly is inspiring. It’s a reminder of how important it is to have a complete game.”
Learning Through Observation
For Paolini, practicing with Sabalenka isn’t just about hitting balls—it’s an opportunity to observe and absorb. “I always try to watch closely how she approaches different situations on the court,” Paolini said. “Whether it’s the way she sets up for a big shot or how she adjusts her positioning during rallies, there’s so much to learn just by paying attention to the details.”
One aspect of Sabalenka’s game that has particularly impressed Paolini is her ability to maintain intensity throughout a session. “Even in practice, Aryna gives it her all. She’s fully focused and committed to every shot. It’s a reminder of how much effort it takes to compete at the highest level,” Paolini explained.
The Impact on Paolini’s Game
Practicing with someone as dominant as Sabalenka has undoubtedly had a positive impact on Paolini’s own game. “It pushes me to raise my level,” she said. “When you’re facing shots coming at you that fast and with that much spin, you have no choice but to adapt and improve. It’s helped me work on my reaction time and my ability to stay composed under pressure.”
Paolini also credits these practice sessions with boosting her confidence. “If I can hold my own against Aryna in practice, it gives me the belief that I can compete with anyone on the tour. It’s a great feeling to know that I’m learning from one of the best,” she added.
The Human Side of Sabalenka
Beyond the intensity of their practice sessions, Paolini spoke warmly about Sabalenka’s personality off the court. “Aryna is such a fun and down-to-earth person. She’s always encouraging and supportive, which makes practicing with her even more enjoyable,” Paolini said.
This balance between fierce competitor and friendly peer is something Paolini admires. “She’s a great example of how you can be incredibly driven and focused while still being kind and approachable. It’s a quality I really respect,” she added.
Looking Ahead: Lessons for the Future
As Paolini continues her journey on the WTA tour, the lessons she’s learned from practicing with Sabalenka are sure to serve her well. “It’s experiences like these that help you grow as a player,” she said. “Every time I step onto the court with Aryna, I feel like I’m getting better—not just technically, but mentally and physically as well.”
Paolini’s goal is to continue climbing the rankings and establishing herself as a consistent presence in the later stages of tournaments. With her determination and the inspiration she’s drawn from players like Sabalenka, there’s every reason to believe she’ll achieve it.
Conclusion: A Practice Partner Like No Other
For Jasmine Paolini, practicing with Aryna Sabalenka has been an eye-opening experience that has challenged her in ways she never imagined. From dealing with the sheer power and precision of Sabalenka’s game to learning the importance of maintaining intensity and focus, Paolini has taken away invaluable lessons that will shape her career moving forward.
In Sabalenka, Paolini has found not just a practice partner but a source of inspiration—a reminder of what it takes to reach the pinnacle of the sport. As Paolini continues to grow and evolve as a player, these sessions will undoubtedly remain a cornerstone of her development. And who knows? The next time the two meet, it might not be on the practice court but in the finals of a Grand Slam.
