US Open teenager, 16, wins more than £100K after huge upset on debut
Iva Jovic, the youngest player in the women's singles draw at the U.S. Open, made history on Day 1 of the tournament with the biggest win of her career so far.
Teenage prodigy Iva Jovic, the youngest contender in this year's US Open singles draw, has stormed into the second round with a stunning victory on the opening day of the tournament.
Related articles
The 16-year-old Torrance, California native, currently world No. 389, triumphed over Poland's Magda Linette, ranked 42nd in the world, with an impressive 6-4, 6-3 win on Court 15.
In her maiden senior Grand Slam outing, Jovic, who secured her spot through winning the USTA's U18 National Championships, is now set to pocket a cool $140,000 (£106,150) following her advance to the second round - a stark contrast to her pre-tournament career earnings of just $24,224 (£18,367).
When quizzed about her plans for the windfall, she quipped, "We're working on that," adding, "I want to save as much as I can".
Post-match, as the media spotlight shone on her, Jovic was asked about her tennis inspirations. Her response was not entirely surprising, especially considering her Serbian heritage.
"I love Djokovic and I love Belinda Bencic on the women's side - I love how she plays," Jovic revealed.
Pressed on whether she had met her hero Djokovic, she admitted, "Not really - I've been like: Hey can I please have a picture? But not really."
She added with a smile: "I do have a selfie. It doesn't look great but it's there."
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
Jovic's sensational victory has certainly turned heads, potentially even catching the eye of her idol Djokovic. The win marks a significant milestone for Jovic, who began her journey in the sport by playing with her sister on their apartment complex's rooftop court.
"We were starting off playing together then obviously got more serious later," she reminisces. Her athletic background is diverse, having dabbled in soccer, gymnastics, and swimming, but tennis captured her heart for its individual nature and the personal satisfaction it brings.
"I just kind of enjoy the process of getting better," she says. "It's very individual and it's up to you and how much you want to work, so it's rewarding to know you did it yourself when you get results."
Fresh from her upset victory, Jovic is already analysing her game, pinpointing her agility and pressure play as key assets while aiming to enhance her ability to dominate opponents quickly during rallies.
"I mean I think just from the ground, I move well and apply good pressure," she evaluates. "I'd like to improve the first strike elements, to be able to punch through opponents really quickly in points, because a lot of players are able to burn you right away if you're not urgent enough. So just work on sharpening those things up."
Currently enrolled in an online schooling programme that accommodates her tennis commitments, Jovic is still set to compete in a junior tournament next week. Yet, with a knowing smile, she clearly acknowledges that a few more wins like her recent one might prompt a swift change in plans.
What next after her breakthrough moment? "I mean I just want to be the best that I can be," she conveys with determination.
"Just get better every day, honestly. Just keep working. I think I'm on a good path but there's a lot more to do. Just keep working to get to my maximum."
