Jasmine Paolini put on a dominant display at the Wuhan Open to reach the semi-finals of the WTA 1000 event.
The Italian finally overcame Iga Swiatek, with her 6-1 6-2 victory on Friday (October 10) being her first ever over the six-time major winner.
Swiatek had won all six of the previous meetings between the pair, most recently at the Cincinnati Open final and before at the 2024 French Open final.
Paolini's win was not only memorable because it was her first against the Pole, but due to the emphatic nature of her quarter-final display in the Hubei capital.
The world No. 8 is now a step closer to winning her second WTA singles title of 2025, after triumphing at the Italian Open earlier this year.
Also, the two-time Grand Slam finalist's chances of securing a spot at the year-end WTA Finals in Riyadh have greatly improved thanks to her run in Wuhan, as has rival Elena Rybakina exiting the tournament at the last eight stage.
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How the quarter-final clash unfolded
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Paolini wasted no time imposing herself against Swiatek as an early double-break led to her remaining in control on the court and swiftly wrapping up the opening set in just 26 minutes.
The two player exchanged breaks early in the second set, but Paolini remained in front thanks to securing the double-break once again.
The 29-year-old then landed a sixth and final break of Swiatek's serve in the match to secure an inaugural win over the world No. 2.
The Italian revealed in her on-court interview that she was "super happy" with her display and to finally get the better of her opponent.
She will now take on two-time major champion Coco Gauff on Saturday (October 11) for a spot in the Wuhan Open final.
Paolini has gotten the better of the American recently, winning the last three matches, including the Italian Open final, so she will be fairly confident heading into the semi-final showdown.
Defending champion and three-time winner Aryna Sabalenka will take on Jessica Pegula in Saturday's other final four match.
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