- Jasmine Paolini credits her Ghanaian heritage
- Paolini's mother has Polish and Ghanaian ancestry
- Paolini stands on the cusp of history
Jasmine Paolini, the surprise finalist at Wimbledon 2024, credits her Ghanaian heritage for her on-court speed. The Italian player, with roots in West Africa, is just one win away from lifting the coveted Venus Rosewater Dish.
Born and raised in Italy, Paolini’s mother has Polish and Ghanaian ancestry. While not Ghanaian by nationality, she embraces all aspects of her heritage.
“I am proud to have different blood in my body,” Paolini said at Roland Garros earlier this year. “I think I am fast because of Ghana.”
This isn’t the first time Paolini has linked her athleticism to her background. In a previous interview, she playfully attributed her determination to her Polish side and her Italian heritage to her energetic style.
Now, Paolini stands on the cusp of history. A victory on Saturday would make her the first player of Ghanaian descent, male or female, to win the Wimbledon singles title.
She’ll face a tough challenge in Barbora Krejcikova, the 2021 French Open champion, but Paolini’s unique blend of heritage and speed will undoubtedly be a weapon on the court.
