Paolini was happy: "I finally got to eat ravioli. Like Sinner? Maybe..."

Legend has it that the jasmine flower is a star fallen from the sky, which the Arabs called Jasmine. And now our Jasmine lights up the Shenzhen sky with the captivating smile of a girl who has come a long way, from that Italian province that continues to conceal pearls of unparalleled beauty in its treasure chests, to return to paradise, to one of the loftiest goals for those who have chosen her sport: another triumph in the Billie Jean King Cup. Three singles victories, one doubles: undefeated and unbeatable. Paolini, Empress of China.

Jasmine, once again Italy's golden girls are on top of the world.

"It's an incredible feeling. It was a really tough match. We're very happy and proud of ourselves and our team. It's a great day for Italy."

Yet against China and Ukraine you risked elimination twice.

"There are so many things to consider: you arrive in China after playing in the United States, the courts are different, and I struggled to adapt to the conditions at first. But we put a lot of heart into our comebacks in the quarterfinals and semifinals."

The final against the much-feared United States paradoxically turned out to be the easiest match.

"Honestly, given how it unfolded, the result was a bit unexpected. In any case, I think it was a very tough match. They're a truly strong team, but we did an incredible job. And I have to thank Elisabetta (Cocciaretto, ed.): going onto the pitch with a 1-0 lead definitely helped me play with more confidence."

Also because she had lost all five matches she had played in her career against Pegula.

"She's an opponent who's always bothered me, because she plays flat and doesn't give me any reference points. But the last match was at the end of 2023, and things have changed since then, and I'm definitely more aware of my level. It was a very tough week; at first I didn't feel very good on the court. Match after match, however, I felt better. This time I felt great, I tried to focus on myself and really hoped I wouldn't have to play doubles after that..."

In Shenzhen, a Sinner version of Paolini was seen...

"Oh, maybe. He's still inimitable. Now let's hope that, like last year, the boys give us the satisfaction of another double. That would be wonderful."

After the celebration on the pitch, what happened in the locker room? You left after a while...

After eliminating China, you also won the hearts of the home fans.

"I just have to thank them. They supported us so much. The Italians who came all the way here, of course, but also the Chinese. It was incredible. I think they helped us turn the game around against Ukraine. They definitely helped us win this competition. We felt a bit at home here. And finally, the night before the final, I was able to eat ravioli."

Jasmine, can you tell us what the secret of this group is?

"The strong bond between us. We all started out together on a long-term project, and above all, we hang out outside of the event, our teams exchange opinions. And we all always say yes to the call-ups: this cements a great unity of purpose."

A group of which she is the undisputed leader.

"We're all important, and it's fantastic to show how we fight on the court. I think playing for the national team is something I've always dreamed of, watching the others. I hope many girls start playing tennis, and that I can be an inspiration."