Jasmine Paolini became the first Italian woman in more than a decade to reach the final of her home Italian Open when she beat American Peyton Stearns 7-5 6-1 on Thursday. Paolini is the first Italian to advance to the final in Rome since her doubles partner Sara Errani lost to Serena Williams in 2014.

Italy’s tennis boom is in full flower at the Foro Italico. Top-ranked Jannik Sinner hasn’t dropped a set in his return from a three-month doping ban at the Italian Open.

Coco Gauff is playing with purpose and poise. Jasmine Paolini has the crowd, the confidence, and a chance to make history on home soil. One match, one trophy -- here’s why both believe this final is theirs to win.