JASMINE PAOLINI'S JARDINE : TENNIS HONOURS

Jasmine Paolini began this year ranked No. 29. Four years ago, she was a little known sprite barely ranked in the top 100.

But a WTA 1000 title in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, in February followed by surprise runner-up finishes to Iga Swiatek at the French Open and to Barbora Krejcikova at Wimbledon thrust her into the spotlight. Now she's ranked No. 4.

Throughout this unexpected run - until this year she had never been beyond the second round at a major championship - Paolini, who is 5 feet four in a port dominated by six-footers, has mesmerized followers with her fearsome forehand, wondrous foot speed and shouts of '' Forza '' [ '' Let's  go,'' in English ] when she wins an important point.

Her grin and quirky command of the English language have created a Pied piper effect.

'' It's not easy because I am short,'' Paolini said with yet another giggle. '' But my feet are fast, and I can make some powerful shots. And I have joy for this sport, and that really helps a lot. I'm trying to fight on every ball and just trying to find a way.

Paolini understands what a magic carpet ride she is on. After 13 years of unremarkable results on the pro tour, she is the first Italian to contest the WTA Finals since Flavia Pennetta in 2015.

'' This was a strange year, but a really nice year,'' Paolini said. '' Things are happening that I can't believe. People are recognizing me, and fans are asking for pictures and autographs and screaming my name. I'm trying to get used to it.'' 

The World Students Society thanks Cindy Shmerler.