Iva Jovic has achieved a significant milestone in her tennis career by securing her first-ever Grand Slam seed for the 2026 Australian Open. This achievement comes after a thoughtful offseason where she focused on refining her skills and enhancing her physicality.
Preparing for the Season
During her offseason, Jovic used the time to experiment by adjusting various aspects of her game. She explored different string types and made minor tweaks to her grip, including a larger butt cap. This change allowed her to maintain a firmer hold on the racket, which has resulted in crisper shots off the racquet.
Jovic remarked on the impact of her physical training, stating, “I think that I’m definitely moving more like a professional now.” In the past, her approach leaned more toward a junior mentality, especially regarding her strength and overall game.
Coping with Tour Life
As she adapts to the demanding life on tour, Jovic is learning to manage the inherent stresses. This includes early flights and late-night matches. Jovic’s coach, Gutteridge, noted the improvement in her resilience, indicating that Jovic previously struggled with maintaining consistency during tournament play.
“Honestly, I feel like I’m learning something every day,” Jovic acknowledged. She is embracing the ups and downs of the tour, understanding that each day presents new challenges.
Australian Open Goals
Last year, Jovic reached the second round of the Australian Open after qualifying through the USTA’s Wild Card Challenge, a success she also achieved at Roland Garros. This year, she feels more settled and confident heading into the tournament.
- Opponent: 94th-ranked Californian player, Volynets
- Age difference: Volynets is six years older than Jovic
- Previous interactions: Volynets practiced with Jovic during her junior years
As Jovic continues to transition from a promising teenager to a serious contender in professional tennis, she recognizes her unique experiences. “There’s not a lot of 18-year-olds that can say they’ve been to as many countries and seen as many things as I have,” she stated.
With her newfound confidence and competitive edge, Iva Jovic is poised for an exciting journey ahead in her tennis career as she heads to the 2026 Australian Open.
