Jasmine Paolini didn’t think much when asked which player she’d hire as a coach, instantly name-dropping Rafael Nadal.

While in Miami for the WTA 1000 tournament, Caroline Garcia came up with an interesting idea for her next podcast episode as she met with the Italian, Elena Rybakina and Maria Sakkari and they all together discussed various topics.

During one segment, guests were asked how they felt about the possibility of coaching one day and to also share if there was any player they’d like to have as their coach.

“Me? Rafa, definitely,” Paolini said on the Tennis Insider Club.

The 29-year-old, who made two Grand Slam finals last year, may be open to hiring a former player as a coach but she doesn’t see herself coaching one day.

“I don’t see myself coaching. You never know, but I don’t think so,” Paolini said.

Paolini split with her coach Renzo Furlan just after making the Nadal coaching revelation

A bit interestingly, the world No. 6 ended her 10-year collaboration with coach Furlan on Monday.

“Renzo has been such an important part of my growth, both as a player and as a person. Everything I’ve learned from him will stay with me and continue to guide me in this new chapter, he’ll always be an important person in my life,” Paolini said in a statement.

“I’m truly grateful for the time, energy, and sacrifices he’s made for me, often far from home and his family. I have so much respect and appreciation for him. For his professionalism, his passion, and the values he’s passed on to me over all these years.”

If Nadal was willing to coach Paolini, there is no doubt that the Italian would gladly welcome him to her team. But it is safe to say that it won’t be happening as the Spanish tennis icon has been pretty low-key since retiring and focused on his family and academy.

In late 2024, Nadal didn’t close the doors on the possibility of coaching one day but indicated that even if that were to happen, it would come only years after his retirement.