Iva Jovic and Victoria Mboko have emerged as exciting young talents at the Australian Open 2026, captivating tennis fans around the world. Jovic, 18, is a Serbian player who has quickly risen through the ranks of women’s tennis.
Iva Jovic’s Rise in Tennis
Born just 16 months after Mboko, Jovic made her professional debut in June 2022. In 2024, she reached the second round of the US Open main draw, where she notably defeated world number 42, Magda Linette. Her ascent continued into 2025, when she claimed her first WTA title at the Guadalajara Open in September, pushing her ranking into the top 40.
Successful Australian Open Preparation
Before the Australian Open, Jovic had a strong performance in warm-up events. She reached the semifinals in Auckland and the finals in Hobart. Her journey in Melbourne has so far been stellar, as she advanced to the fourth round without losing a set.
Match Highlights
- Jovic faced off against Paolini, a player she had lost to in straight sets at the previous year’s US Open.
- In this match, Jovic quickly took control, breaking Paolini’s serve three times.
- She excelled in baseline exchanges and held her composure in a tense second-set tie-break.
Inspired by Novak Djokovic
Jovic attributes part of her success to the encouragement and advice she received from 24-time Grand Slam champion, Novak Djokovic. After their recent conversation, she applied his tips during her matches, focusing on court positioning and shot selection.
“I spoke to Novak yesterday, and he provided some excellent advice to help my game,” Jovic remarked. “I will continue to listen to his guidance as I progress.” This mentorship has undoubtedly contributed to her confidence on the court.
Victoria Mboko’s Growing Legacy
Alongside Jovic, Victoria Mboko has also made her mark at the Australian Open 2026. Both players are set to shape the future of women’s tennis with their impressive skills and passion for the game.
As they progress in the tournament, fans eagerly anticipate how Jovic and Mboko will fare against tougher competition. With their youthful energy and determination, they are likely to become fixtures in the world of tennis for years to come.
