Iva Jovic picked up her first victory at this year’s Madrid Open by defeating Magda Linette in straight sets.
Outside of Jovic’s shock defeat at the Billie Jean King Cup, the American teenager has been in fine form during the 2026 season.
Jovic has reached the quarter-finals of the Australian Open already this year and she followed it up with a semi-final appearance at the Charleston Open.
After picking up her first victory at the Madrid Open, Jovic opened up about her relationship with some of the top players in the United States.
Iva Jovic details her relationship with Jessica Pegula and Coco Gauff
Appearing on The Tennis Channel, Jovic was asked which veterans on the WTA Tour have helped her since her breakout.
“I would say the Americans are really supportive. Jess [Pegula], Maddie [Keys], Coco [Gauff], I can’t even believe I’m calling Coco a veteran. She’s 21 years old, but I feel like she’s been doing it for so long,” said Jovic.
Who is your favourite for the Madrid Open? 🤔
“They’re all really nice. We have good camaraderie there. I mean, even Magda [Linette] from today, I have a good bond with her.
“She was my first WTA match. So, she always gives me some good tips. So, I like to form those connections, and I have a few people I can lean on.”
Jovic has played Pegula twice already this season, losing both matches. She is yet to play Gauff on the WTA Tour.
Iva Jovic faces a tough test at the Madrid Open
Jovic entered the Madrid Open as the world number 16 and she has been rewarded with seeded entry, but she still faces a difficult task at the Spanish event.
The teenager is set to play Leylah Fernandez for the first time in her career next after the Canadian defeated Julia Grabher.
Do you back yourself to win a point against John McEnroe?
67 years of experience!
Fernandez is on the cusp of the WTA Tour top 20 once again after some impressive results recently, including victories against Alexandra Eala and Zeynep Sonmez.
Should the American find a way past Fernandez, she will likely play a resurgent Iga Swiatek in the fourth round.
Swiatek is looking good under new coach Francisco Roig and her clay court record speaks for itself, so Jovic has been handed a tough draw in Madrid.
