Sawt Falasteen - Late bloomer Paolini looking to build on 'amazing' 2024

The 28-year-old Italian had the time of her life last year, finishing runner-up at Roland Garros and Wimbledon.

She also won her second career title in Dubai, triumphed with Italy in doubles at the Paris Olympics and then helped her country to Billie Jean King Cup glory.

"I'm trying just to keep this level that I kept all last year as long as possible," she said in Sydney on Saturday ahead of opening her season at the mixed-team United Cup in the lead-up to the Australian Open.

"I'm enjoying playing big tournaments, big stadiums, with big opponents as well.

"You know, I'm not thinking about 2024. I mean, it's been amazing, but this next year is another story."

Paolini has been a late bloomer after making her debut a decade ago, hovering just inside the top 100 for several seasons.

She upped her game in 2023 to end the year ranked 30 before her exploits last season propelled her to a current career-high four.

"I still have to improve many things and I'm trying to be focused on the work and trying to be focused on any match that I play," she said.

"I'm not trying to focus on the ranking that I can have at the end of next year, just trying to live in the present, trying to enjoy it, and trying to keep this level as long as possible."

J.AbuHassan--SF-PST