Match Overview
In a decisive Women’s Doubles Quarter-final at Roland-Garros on Court Simonne-Mathieu, the Italian pair Sara Errani and Jasmine Paolini showcased their dominance by defeating the British duo Katie Boulter and Heather Watson. The match, which took place on Thursday, 1 August 2024, at 13:00 Paris Time, ended with a straight-sets victory for Errani and Paolini, who won 6-3, 6-1 in just 1 hour and 2 minutes. This win propels the Italian team into the semi-finals, where they will aim to continue their impressive run.
First Set: Italian Precision
The first set saw Errani and Paolini demonstrating strong teamwork and precision, winning 29 points compared to the 18 points won by Boulter and Watson. Despite Boulter and Watson serving 2 aces, the Italian team maintained an impressive 87% success rate on their first serves, winning 15 out of 20 points. They also excelled in receiving points, capturing 50% compared to the British team’s 26%. The Italians converted both of their break point opportunities while Boulter and Watson managed to convert their single break point chance. Errani and Paolini’s consistent play led to fewer unforced errors, only 4 compared to the 13 committed by the British pair.
Errani and Paolini’s strategy was clear from the start: maintain consistent serves and capitalize on their opponents’ mistakes. Their ability to force errors and limit their own unforced errors was crucial in establishing early control of the match. The Italian duo’s chemistry and experience on the court were evident as they communicated seamlessly and executed their game plan effectively.
Second Set: Unrelenting Pressure
In the second set, Errani and Paolini continued their relentless performance, winning 26 points against 11 by Boulter and Watson. Their first serve success rate was slightly lower at 75%, but their receiving points performance was exceptional, winning 76% compared to 38% for the British team. The Italians broke the British serve four times out of five opportunities, while Boulter and Watson only managed to convert one break point. Errani and Paolini kept their unforced errors to just 3, while the British pair committed 8.
The second set highlighted the Italian pair’s ability to maintain pressure and adapt their strategy as needed. Errani and Paolini’s aggressive return game and solid net play disrupted the rhythm of Boulter and Watson, making it difficult for the British team to find their footing. The Italians’ dominance was evident as they quickly wrapped up the set, securing their spot in the semi-finals.
Total Match Statistics
Throughout the match, Errani and Paolini demonstrated superior play with a total of 55 points won compared to 29 by Boulter and Watson. The Italians maintained a high first serve success rate of 82%, with strong performances in both service and receiving points. They won 6 out of 7 break points, while the British team converted both of their break points. The Italians managed to keep their unforced errors to a minimum with just 7, while Boulter and Watson had 21.
Errani and Paolini’s comprehensive victory was a testament to their preparation and execution. Their ability to perform under pressure and maintain composure throughout the match was key to their success. As they move forward to the semi-finals, the Italian duo will look to build on this performance and continue their pursuit of the title.
