Jasmine Paolini called out games, sets and matches with Renzo Fran over a decade, ending a glittering partnership that peaked last year in the Grand Slam Finals, Olympic Gold and longtime mentor Coach of the Year Crown.
“An amazing decade later, I would like to greatly thank Renzo Furlan for everything he did for me,” the 29-year-old Italian wrote, announcing the end of an “incredible journey” on Instagram.
The rise of Paolini under his fellow countryman Fran was incredible.
In 2024, she was Wimbledon runner-up at the French Open, winning doubles gold at the Parisio Games, and helped lift the Billy Junking Cup in the middle of Italy becoming the world number four.
Furlan’s efforts were not noticed – he crowned the WTA Coach of the Year.
Still, the curtains fall off.
This season has been solid, but so far it hasn’t sparkled. Paolini bowed in the Australian Open third round to reach the Miami semi-finals, where she lost to world number one and ultimate champion Aryna Sabalenka.
“Renzo has been an important part of my development, both as a player and as a person,” Parini said.
“Everything I have learned from him will be with me and I will continue to guide me in this new chapter. He will always be an important person in my life.”
Paolini praised the 54-year-old Furlan for his dedication – “often far from his home and his family” – and signed off with “so much respect and gratitude.”
The split is approaching the French Open on May 25th, raising questions about whether Paolini could repeat last year’s success without the coach who led her.