The third-round clash between 18-year-old Iva Jovic and 21-year-old Alexandra Eala at the US Open is set to be an intriguing matchup. While the night session will feature two of the WTA’s rising stars and close friends battling for a spot in the second week, analysts have weighed in on who holds the edge based on their recent form and head-to-head record.
Alexandra Eala’s US Open Run Faces Tough Iva Jovic Test After American Dominated First Two Meetings
The Filipina comes into New York with plenty of confidence after her breakthrough title run at the DC Open, while Jovic struggled, suffering early exits in both Canada and Cincinnati.
However, Jovic has a 2-0 head-to-head record against Eala, with the American winning in straight sets in their last official match at the HSBC Championships during grass-court season.
On Tennis Channel, former World No. 1 Lindsay Davenport and ATP pro-turned-analyst Prakash Amritraj have both pointed out the two players’ different styles.
“It’ll be an interesting matchup,” Davenport observed. “Jovic has dominated their previous two matches, but much different momentum coming in here. Eala was the much better player on the hard courts over the summer… So, she comes in with maybe a little bit of a different mindset.”
Despite Eala’s strong summer form, Davenport highlighted Jovic’s aggressive baseline game as a major challenge. Jovic plays close to the baseline and takes the ball very early, giving opponents little time to react. Eala will have to work hard in defense to handle her heavy pace and early ball-striking.
Amritraj picked the World No. 14 based on her overall game, while also acknowledging Eala’s advantage in the current conditions.
“I lean towards Jovic, not just because of the history,” Amritraj explained. “This, of course, is on the hard court, but I just feel she’s a better player at the moment.”
However, he also admitted that Eala’s recent success makes her a serious threat, noting that the hard courts suit Eala’s rhythm.
Meanwhile, Jovic and Eala’s friendship adds another interesting angle. Their close bond began in 2022, when Eala won the US Open girls’ title.
Recently, they played an exhibition match as part of the “Stars of the Open” event during the Fan Week at the US Open, where Jovic won. They also surprised fans at Arthur Ashe Stadium by bringing their fathers onto the court for a fun doubles rally.
Now, both players know they will have to put their friendship aside once they step onto the court.
“Obviously, it’s very difficult to be friends and also compete,” Jovic explained after her second-round win. “But then, on the court, it’s fair game, winner takes all; we go for it. Alex is definitely one of those people where we both put it aside.”
Eala shared the same view. “Iva, yes, she’s an amazing player. Young, very talented, and very intelligent,” Eala noted during her presser. “I’ve encountered my fair share of challenges against her this year. All I can do is give my best and try to do everything that I can to win.”
Their third-round match is scheduled at 7 p.m. ET.
