American Teen Iva Jovic Upsets Paolini at Australian Open for Best Career Win
American teenager Iva Jovic delivered a remarkable performance at the Australian Open, defeating seventh-seed Jasmine Paolini. The match concluded with a score of 6-2, 7-6(3), marking Jovic’s best career victory and her first appearance in the Grand Slam’s last-16 stage.
Iva Jovic’s Impressive Upset at Australian Open
This victory is notable as Jovic, only 18 years old, managed to turn the tables on Paolini, who had previously beaten her at both Indian Wells and the U.S. Open. The win also extended Jovic’s impressive winning streak to ten matches early in 2026.
Match Highlights
- Score: Jovic defeated Paolini 6-2, 7-6(3).
- Previous Encounters: Paolini won both previous matches against Jovic.
- Winning Streak: Jovic is currently on a 10-match winning streak.
After her victory, Jovic shared her emotions, stating, “It feels amazing. I’ve been working really hard for it.” She expressed her joy at overcoming the challenges she faced in prior matches.
Key Moments
During the match, Jovic had a chance to serve for the win but saw Paolini force a tiebreak. However, she displayed remarkable composure and won the last five points of the tiebreak to secure the match. Jovic commented on her approach, emphasizing her need to stay aggressive during crucial moments.
Canadian Talents Rise
Jovic’s victory was complemented by fellow North American teenager Victoria Mboko, who also progressed after defeating Clara Tauson with a score of 7-6(5), 5-7, 6-3.
Paolini’s Challenges
During the match, Paolini took a medical timeout due to stomach issues that affected her performance. Despite her struggle, she commended Jovic’s skill and maturity, predicting a bright future for her young opponent. “She’s very tough,” Paolini said. “She plays well with every shot.”
Advice from a Tennis Legend
Jovic also had the opportunity to receive guidance from tennis star Novak Djokovic before her match. She spoke about the valuable tips he provided and expressed gratitude for his support for younger players. “When Novak gives you some advice, you follow it,” she noted.
Jovic’s win not only showcases her potential but also underlines the emergence of young talent in tennis, particularly from North America. Looking forward, she is set to face Yulia Putintseva in the next round as she aims to make her mark at the Australian Open.
