No one would have picked this as a Wimbledon semifinal when the tournament started. Jasmine Paolini had never had success in her career on grass, and Vekic, while some wins on grass, had never gone deep in a Major before. And yet, one of these women will reach the Wimbledon final. But who will it be? Our writers share their thoughts on the match. Predicting this match are Jordan Reynolds, Shane Black, Ateet Shrivastava, Andreas Pelekis, and Yesh Ginsburg. We also share our predictions for the other women’s semifinal, between Elena Rybakina and Barbora Krejcikova, in a separate article.
Wimbledon Semifinal Prediction
Jasmine Paolini vs Donna Vekic
Jordan:
Paolini was breathtakingly good against Emma Navarro in the quarterfinal. It was undoubtedly the best women’s performance seen at Wimbledon so far this year. Vekic will likely need to serve as well as she did against Lulu Sun to have a chance. But I think the Croatian is going to find it tough to overcome Paolini. The Italian’s return, variety and boundless energy means she is the favorite.
Prediction: Paolini in 2
Shane:
Paolini’s Grand Slam performances in 2024 have been remarkable. She was in complete control in her quarterfinal win over Navarro and undeniably has the form of one of the best players in the world. Vekic has always favored grass as her best surface and has picked up some great wins at SW19. However, she has already played four five-setters. Whether it’s the legs or the nerves, I expect her to blink first in a decider.
Prediction: Paolini in 3
Ateet:
What a big milestone this is for both these players as they reach the semifinals of Wimbledon for the first time. For Donna Vekic it is even more special as this is her first semifinal in any Slam. Both players have played some excellent tennis to reach here and will hope to bring their best level yet again. Paolini will move around Vekic and try to tire her out. Vekic will have to play lights-out, fearless tennis to win. This will be close but I trust Paolini more to handle pressure.
Prediction: Paolini in 3
Andreas:
Paolini has become one of the storylines of the 2024 season, making her Top 5 debut after winning her quarterfinal match against Emma Navarro. The Italian will use her power effectively on the court, but she’s also strong at the net. Vekic has now gone through three consecutive matches ending in a final set, and while the Croat also thrives on grass, it may be tough for her to keep up with Paolini’s game. Vekic will have to serve big and break down Paolini’s powerful groundstrokes.
Prediction: Paolini in 2
Yesh:
Paolini has been a revelation this year. She came in with a breakout run at the French Open. She followed that up with a run to the Wimbledon semis that has included some of the most amazing grass court tennis I’ve seen since Venus Williams’ prime. If she keeps up that level, she’s winning this tournament and no one else is coming close.
Prediction: Paolini in 2
Main Photo Credit: Susan Mullane-USA TODAY Sports
