Did Stearns Achieve a Historic Win with a Third-Set Tiebreak in Rome?
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Synopsis
In a stunning display of talent, <b>Peyton Stearns</b> makes history by becoming the first player to win three straight WTA matches in third-set tiebreaks during the Italian Open. Her remarkable journey continues as she prepares for her semifinal match against top Italian player <b>Jasmine Paolini</b>.
Key Takeaways
- Peyton Stearns achieves a historic milestone in women's tennis.
- Defeated Elina Svitolina in a thrilling quarterfinal match.
- Ranked World No. 42, set for a career-high ranking.
- Next match against top Italian player Jasmine Paolini.
- First American woman in Rome semis since Venus Williams.
Rome, May 14 (NationPress) Peyton Stearns has etched her name in history at the Italian Open following a heart-stopping victory against No. 16 seed Elina Svitolina in an electrifying quarterfinal encounter. She has become the first player in the Open Era to clinch three consecutive WTA main-draw matches through third-set tiebreaks.
Despite losing a commanding 6-2, 4-2 lead, the unseeded American Stearns mounted a remarkable comeback from a double-break disadvantage in the third set, ultimately defeating Svitolina 6-2, 4-6, 7-6(4) after two hours and 38 minutes of intense play.
In her previous rounds, Stearns triumphed over Grand Slam champions Madison Keys and Naomi Osaka in similarly thrilling third-set tiebreaks, marking this historic streak. Her win against World No. 6 Keys stands out as her most significant victory to date based on her opponent's ranking.
She is the first player since Daria Saville in 2015 to reach the semifinals on her debut at the Rome main draw, and the first American woman to achieve this since Venus Williams did so in 1998, according to WTA reports.
Ranked World No. 42, Stearns has secured her place in the first WTA 1000 semifinal of her career, ensuring a new career-high ranking in the upcoming WTA Rankings update. This success could also lead to her first-ever Grand Slam seeding at Roland Garros.
Next, Stearns will face top Italian player Jasmine Paolini on Thursday. The No. 6 seed Paolini advanced to her first Rome semifinal with a three-set victory against No. 13 seed Diana Shnaider on Tuesday.
Paolini is only the fifth Italian woman in the Open Era to reach the final four in Rome, with the last such achievement occurring 11 years ago by her doubles partner Sara Errani.
“It was really a tough match. I’m thrilled to have come through it. It felt like a roller coaster. Point by point, I found my way through – I fought until the end. The crowd's support was phenomenal. I'm really pleased with this win,” Paolini, who is now in her third WTA 1000 semifinal after Dubai 2024 and Miami 2025, shared with the media.
Point of View
It's exciting to witness Peyton Stearns making waves at the Italian Open. Her remarkable performance not only highlights her talent but also adds a significant chapter to tennis history. With her tenacity and skill, she is poised for an impressive career ahead. This victory is a testament to the growing competitiveness of women's tennis, and we look forward to her future matches with great anticipation.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What historic achievement did Peyton Stearns reach at the Italian Open?
Peyton Stearns became the first player in the Open Era to win three consecutive WTA main-draw matches in third-set tiebreaks.
Who did Peyton Stearns defeat to reach the semifinals?
Stearns defeated No. 16 seed Elina Svitolina in the quarterfinals.
What ranking does Peyton Stearns hold currently?
Stearns is currently ranked World No. 42.
Who is Stearns facing in the semifinals?
Stearns will face top Italian player Jasmine Paolini.
When was the last time an American woman reached the semifinals in Rome?
The last American woman to reach the semifinals in Rome was Venus Williams in 1998.
