Jasmine Paolini is on a quest for both medals and a memorable selfie, aiming to capture victory and a perfect moment in one go. Notably, the young WTA player wishes to take a selfie with none other than Rafael Nadal. Recently, Paolini expressed her desire, channeling her inner Rafa fan at the Paris Olympics.

Paolini’s breakout year could be about to get even better as she gears up for the Paris Olympics, bringing strong medal prospects in both singles and doubles. Adding to the excitement, the 28-year-old Tuscan is also hoping for a chance to grab a selfie with French Open king Rafael Nadal. Paolini returns to Roland Garros just weeks after reaching the French Open final and repeating the feat at Wimbledon, where she also ended as runner-up.

These remarkable performances have propelled her to fifth in the WTA rankings. As she prepares for her second Olympics, Paolini, seeded fourth, is poised to make a deep run, with a hope to get a selfie with the 22-time Grand Slam champion.

Recently, she stated, “I would like to take a selfie with Nadal. I passed him yesterday, but I felt ashamed to ask him. Before the Olympics end, I will do it.” Reflecting on her past encounters, Paolini added, “I have one with Roger (Federer) and one with Novak (Djokovic) from the previous Olympics, so my goal is to ask for one with Rafa. “

Not only that, the 28-year-old tennis player also humorously talked about how if her fans saw a selfie on Instagram with Rafa, just understand that she had done it. This open wish highlights Paolini’s blend of fandom fervor and competitive spirit, as well as her desire to commemorate the Games’ special moments and accomplishments.

However, while she shares the common admiration for the sport’s Big Three, Paolini made a ‘crazy’ admission earlier this year after her Wimbledon final loss. In a moment of candid reflection, she name-dropped Roger Federer, expressing how his presence and legacy continue to inspire and influence her.

When Jasmine Paolini opened up about the Roger Federer craze

Paolini has reflected on her ‘crazy’ journey in 2024 with a heartwarming admission about her support for Roger Federer following her loss in the Wimbledon final. The Italian, who finished in second place in the last two Grand Slams, was incredibly proud of herself for making it to the final and recalled her childhood support of the eight-time champion.

After that, when asked if she would return to the grand stage, the 28-year-old responded with a hopeful smile, saying, “I hope so. Today I am a little bit sad but I keep smiling. I was looking at the TV as a kid, cheering for Federer I have to say!” Even though Jasmine Paolini lost to Barbora Krejčíková in three sets at SW19, her sincere enthusiasm and tenacity have won her over a lot of admirers.

Nevertheless, what are your thoughts on the 28-year-old tennis player’s wish? Do let us know in the comment section below.