Iga Swiatek (left) and Jasmine Paolini (right) face off in the 2024 French Open final.
The French Open final on Saturday promises an intriguing match-up as world number one Iga Swiatek faces off against late bloomer Jasmine Paolini. Here’s what to expect:
Iga Swiatek: The Rising Queen of Clay
Iga Swiatek has been dominant on clay, reminiscent of Rafael Nadal’s early career. At just 23, Swiatek is vying for her fourth French Open title, a milestone Nadal reached at the same age. Despite the comparisons, Swiatek remains humble:
“I’d never expect anybody to compare me to Rafa because he’s above everybody for me, and he’s a total legend.”
Swiatek’s performance over the past few years has been stellar, and she enters this final as the overwhelming favorite. Her journey to the final has been marked by impressive victories, demonstrating her prowess on clay.
Jasmine Paolini: The Unexpected Finalist
Jasmine Paolini, at 28, is making her Grand Slam final debut. Her path to the final has been a Cinderella story, as she has overcome the odds to reach this stage. Paolini had never advanced past the second round of a major until this year when she made a surprising run to the fourth round of the Australian Open.
“I never dreamed so big. Never,” said Paolini, reflecting on her unexpected journey.
Paolini’s perseverance and late bloom have endeared her to fans, and her run to the final has been nothing short of inspirational. With a £2m prize at stake, Paolini is just one win away from a fairy-tale ending.
Match Details
- Date and Time: Saturday, June 8, 2024, at 14:00 BST
- Location: Roland Garros, Paris
- Live Coverage: BBC Radio 5 Sports Extra and the BBC Sport website and app
Swiatek aims to cement her legacy as the tennis world watches, while Paolini hopes to create one of the upsets in Grand Slam history. Tune in for what promises to be a captivating final.
