One of the biggest surprises in the 2024 US Open women’s tournament so far involves the youngest participant, Iva Jovic. The newcomer from California made a stunning Grand Slam debut by defeating Magda Linette in the first round, eliminating the 2023 Australian Open semifinalist.
Jovic, the fifth-ranked junior player in the world, secured her spot in the US Open after winning the USTA Billie Jean King Girls’ 18s National Championship earlier this month. She became the youngest American to win a women’s main-draw match at Flushing Meadows since 2000.
After her victory over Linette, Jovic stated, “Surprised, but not surprised. I had a plan in mind before we started, and things went well without the need for major adjustments.”
Here’s everything you need to know about Iva Jovic, the teenage tennis sensation who impressed in her Round 1 triumph at the 2024 US Open.
MORE: Live tennis scores, full draw, bracket at Flushing Meadows
Who is Iva Jovic?
Iva Jovic grew up in Torrance, Calif., engaging in various sports such as soccer, gymnastics, and swimming. Despite trying different activities, she always gravitated back to tennis, practicing with her older sister on the rooftop courts of their apartment complex.
Her success on the junior tennis circuit began when she won the U14 singles title at the Orange Bowl in December 2021. Jovic later teamed up with Tyra Caterina Grant, winning the doubles event at the Orange Bowl in 2022 and 2023. The duo also represented Team USA at the 2023 Junior Billie Jean Cup, winning the tournament without dropping a set.
In 2024, Jovic and Grant continued their winning streak by claiming the junior doubles titles at the Australian Open and Wimbledon, and reaching the final of the French Open.
Iva Jovic age
Born on Dec. 6, 2007, Iva Jovic is 16 years old. She is currently balancing her tennis career with high school studies through online courses. Jovic will also be competing in the junior event at the US Open later in the tournament.
MORE: Coco Gauff next match at US Open 2024
Iva Jovic results
In her impressive victory over the ranked Polish player, Jovic not only won but did so convincingly. She dominated Linette, only committing 15 unforced errors compared to Linette’s 29. Jovic also capitalized on her break-point opportunities and maintained a strong serving performance.
Here’s a summary of the scores from Jovic’s first-round win:
| Player | Set 1 | Set 2 | Final |
| Magda Linette | 4 | 3 | 0 |
| Iva Jovic | 6 | 6 | 2 |