Iga Swiatek is gearing up for another encounter with Jasmine Paolini, this time in Wuhan, with full awareness of the challenge ahead. The Polish star, currently ranked No. 2 in the world, has already faced Paolini in a final earlier this year, a match that reinforced her respect for the Italian’s tenacity and skill.

“She’s a really tough opponent. We already played a final this year. So I know she can play amazing tennis. She’s a fighter. She never gives up,” Swiatek said.

Their previous meetings have highlighted Paolini’s ability to push Swiatek into long rallies and force her to adapt tactically. Swiatek holds a dominant head-to-head record, but she remains cautious, especially given Paolini’s recent performances on various surfaces.

Physical Readiness and Tactical Focus

Swiatek emphasized the importance of physical preparation, noting Paolini’s relentless style of play. Known for her defensive prowess and counterpunching ability, Paolini often extends rallies and forces opponents to stay sharp throughout the match.

“Played a couple of tough matches. You always need to be physically ready for every ball to come back. I’ll just prepare and I’ll be ready,” Swiatek added.

This approach reflects Swiatek’s disciplined mindset, shaped by her experience on the WTA Tour and her recent coaching partnership with Wim Fissette. Her strategy often involves controlling the baseline and using her heavy topspin forehand to dictate play, especially against opponents who thrive on rhythm and consistency.

A Rivalry Built on Respect

While Swiatek has consistently outperformed Paolini in their head-to-head matchups, including a decisive win at Roland Garros in 2024, she continues to speak highly of her opponent’s fighting spirit. Their matches have showcased contrasting styles—Swiatek’s aggressive baseline play versus Paolini’s defensive grit.

In a recent interview following their Bad Homburg semifinal, Swiatek remarked: “I’m happy that I kept the momentum going until the end of the game, because she’s a fighter, you know?”

This mutual recognition adds depth to their rivalry, making their upcoming Wuhan match one to watch. Both players bring intensity and adaptability, and Swiatek’s preparation reflects her respect for Paolini’s ability to challenge even the top-ranked players.

WTA Wuhan - Iga Swiatek's projected path

Swiatek in Wuhan, ranking, and results in 2025

Now ranked no.2, the Pole achieved a 60-14 win-loss record in 2025. Iga is playing in Wuhan where she conquered the world no.41 Marie Bouzkova 6-1 6-1 and the world no.15 Belinda Bencic 7-6(2) 6-4

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Iga Swiatek will come up against the world no.8 Jasmine Paolini in the quarter. Their current record is 6-0 for Swiatek.

Swiatek conquered 3 titles in 2025 in Wimbledon, Cincinnati and Seoul. Iga reached the final in Australia (United Cup) and in Bad Homburg (Bad Homburg Open).

The Pole won 26 titles in her career: 15 on hard courts, 10 on clay courts and 1 on grass courts. (See the list of her titles)

WTA Wuhan - Jasmine Paolini's projected path

Paolini in Wuhan, ranking, and results in 2025

Now the world no.8, Paolini has a compiled 43-16 match record in 2025. Jasmine is currently having a run in Wuhan where she beat the world no.109 Yue Yuan 3-6 6-4 6-3 and the world no.12 Clara Tauson 3-6 6-1 3-1 ret..

Jasmine Paolini will square off with the world no.2 Iga Swiatek in the quarter. Their actual head to head record is 6-0 for Swiatek.

Jasmine clinched 1 title in 2025 in Rome. The Italian got to the final in Cincinnati (Cincinnati Open).

Iga Swiatek and Jasmine Paolini played each other 6 times. Their actual head to head record is 6-0 for Swiatek.