Jasmine Paolini joined Coco Gauff in a select group at the US Open, becoming one of only two women to reach at least the fourth round in every Grand Slam tournament in 2024. Paolini achieved this milestone with a commanding 6-3, 6-4 victory over No. 30 seed Yulia Putintseva on Saturday, marking her first-ever fourth-round appearance at Flushing Meadows. The fifth-seeded Italian, known for her consistent performances this year, had never progressed past the second round in her previous 16 Grand Slam appearances. However, she reached the fourth round at the Australian Open in January and went on to be the runner-up at both the French Open and Wimbledon.
Paolini displayed impressive form against Putintseva at Louis Armstrong Stadium, racking up 13 winners off her forehand. She will now face 2023 French Open finalist Karolina Muchova on Monday, vying for a spot in the quarterfinals.
Meanwhile, Muchova, making her return to Grand Slam fourth rounds after a wrist surgery, defeated Anastasia Potapova 6-4, 6-2. Muchova, who reached the semifinals at Flushing Meadows before her injury, showcased a return to her previous form. Her consistent game, highlighted by eight aces, 24 winners, and just 11 unforced errors, demonstrated her determination to reclaim her spot among the elite. She is looking to build upon her impressive run at the US Open, echoing her sentiments with “I’m trying every day to put some work in and get back to where I was—maybe even better.” She has now won all three of her matches this week in straight sets, including a victory over four-time Slam champion Naomi Osaka.
As Muchova, currently ranked No. 52, continues her ascent back to her career-high ranking of No. 8, a potential clash against Paolini in the quarterfinals promises to be an exciting encounter between two in-form players. The US Open is shaping up to be a tournament of surprises and thrilling match-ups, as these players make their mark on the Grand Slam stage.
