AO 2026: Jovic Soars to Face Sabalenka Challenge
In the evolving world of tennis, 2026 is poised to be a significant year for rising star Jovic as she prepares to challenge elite player Aryna Sabalenka.
Jovic’s Remarkable Journey
Jovic’s ascent in the tennis world began at the USTA’s U18 National Championships, where she astoundingly secured a wildcard by winning at just 16 years old. This victory enabled her to compete in the US Open 2024.
Historic Achievements
At the US Open, Jovic achieved a milestone by clinching her first WTA win against Magda Linette. This victory marked her as the youngest American woman since 2000 to win a match in the US Open main draw.
- Roland-Garros: Qualified after winning the USTA’s Wild Card Challenge. She defeated Renata Zarazua but lost to Elena Rybakina.
- Wimbledon: Made her debut, showcasing her prowess on the grass courts.
- Guadalajara Open: Captured her first WTA title, elevating her ranking into the Top 40 by September.
- Auckland: Reached the semi-finals before becoming a runner-up in Hobart.
Jovic’s Mindset and Preparation
With confidence, Jovic expressed her outlook on the challenges ahead: “I don’t really feel like there is a lot of house money or underdog mentality,” she stated. She believes her recent performances have been consistent with her confidence and playing level.
Having played extensively and gained valuable experience in previous tournaments, Jovic feels well-prepared for the stakes of major competitions, such as facing Sabalenka. “I think I have improved a lot throughout the offseason, and this is just the level that I feel like I’ve gotten my base level a bit higher,” she concluded.
