The tennis world has buzzed with excitement following a remarkable upset at the Australian Open, where 18-year-old American emerging star Iva Jovic stunned one of the tournament favorites in a memorable third-round match. In the aftermath of that upset, Jovic offered candid and inspiring insights into how one of the sport’s greatest champions, Novak Djokovic, quietly supported and advised her ahead of that breakthrough moment — a side of the Serbian legend that few spectators had seen up close.
American teenager Iva Jovic has quickly become a name tennis fans are paying attention to this season. Not only because of her bold playing style and maturity beyond her years but also because of how she handled a defining moment at the Australian Open. The 29th-seeded Jovic delivered a stunning performance against Italian seventh seed Jasmine Paolini, winning 6-2, 7-6(3) to reach the fourth round of a Grand Slam for the first time.
But beyond the match itself, what has captured widespread attention is Jovic’s revelation about the behind-the-scenes conversation she had with Novak Djokovic. The 24-time Grand Slam champion is widely respected for his success on the court, but Jovic’s comments highlighted a thoughtful and supportive side of his personality that isn’t often part of the media spotlight.
Unexpected Guidance from a Tennis Legend
In her post-match press conference, Jovic shared that she had spoken with Djokovic the day before her crucial third-round battle. What began as a casual conversation turned into an invaluable exchange of insight. According to Jovic, Djokovic offered her specific tactical suggestions she could incorporate into her game plan.
Jovic said that Djokovic’s tips helped her focus on opening up the court more effectively and being more intentional with shot placement — advice that she believes contributed directly to her strong performance. “It was just to open up the court a little bit better, to not rush into the shots all the time, find some more width,” Jovic explained, describing how she tried to integrate that advice during the match.
She also mentioned that Djokovic was “even kinder and more attentive outside the cameras than what he’s portrayed,” a remark that paints a warm picture of the champion’s personality off the court.
A Breakthrough Victory Defined by Composure
Jovic’s match performance against Paolini was strong from the outset. She dominated the first set, winning it in just 37 minutes with aggressive play and effective court coverage. Her opponent committed several unforced errors under the American’s pressure, and Jovic capitalized with well-timed shots that kept Paolini off balance.
In the second set, Paolini adjusted her tactics and made the contest much tighter. Jovic had opportunities to serve out the match, but her opponent fought back, forcing the set into a tiebreak. It was here that Jovic’s composure really shone through. With aggressive return winners and strategic point-construction, she captured the tiebreak 7-6(3) and sealed the victory.
Her commanding performance not only marked her first win over a top-10 player in a Grand Slam but also extended her tour-leading winning streak in 2026. The result signifies a huge moment in Jovic’s young career and suggests that she is capable of challenging the sport’s more experienced competitors on big stages.
Reflection on Djokovic’s Role
In recounting her conversation with Djokovic, Jovic also touched on the personal connection that helped make that exchange possible. Her father is of Serbian descent, and Jovic has spent time in Belgrade, which deepened her admiration for Djokovic from an early age. That shared heritage provided a natural bond, and Jovic had spoken previously about how inspiring she found Djokovic’s career and resilience.
After the match, Jovic described her experience speaking with Djokovic as memorable and uplifting. “I think when Novak gives you some advice, you follow it,” she said with a smile in her press remarks. Her comments offered a glimpse into his genuine interest in helping younger players grow, a perspective that many fans and fellow athletes have praised in recent days.
Why This Upset Matters
This breakthrough is significant not just for Jovic’s individual journey but also as a sign of the growing depth of talent in women’s tennis. In a sport where experience and consistency have often distinguished top contenders, young players like Jovic are increasingly showing that they can compete and succeed against the established elite. Her victory was one of the standout moments in the third round of the Australian Open and attracted attention from tennis commentators and fans around the world.
For Jovic, the win represents a stepping stone toward her broader goals on the tour. She has already shown early promise with solid results in recent events leading into the Australian Open, and reaching the second week of a Grand Slam is both a confidence booster and a statement of her potential. With the guidance she received and the experience she’s building, many eyes will be on her performances in the upcoming rounds.
The Broader Response from the Tennis Community
Across social media and fan discussions, reactions to Jovic’s upset and her comments about Djokovic have been overwhelmingly positive. Many see her story as a feel-good moment — a young, rising athlete not only achieving a breakthrough on the biggest stages but also drawing inspiration from a champion who has defined a generation of tennis excellence. Observers have highlighted how Djokovic’s willingness to share insight reflects positively on his role in the sport, mentoring the next wave of competitors even while still pursuing his own historic career goals.
Looking Ahead
As the Australian Open progresses into the later rounds, Jovic’s next matchup will be watched with interest from fans and analysts alike. Her confidence is elevated, and the belief that she can continue to compete at this level has been reinforced by her recent performances. Major titles, media attention, and ranking advancement could soon be part of her journey — but for now, Jovic is simply enjoying the moment and appreciating the support that has helped her get this far.