Iva Jovic recently reflected on her experience partnering with Alexandra Eala in doubles at the BNP Paribas Open earlier this month. The American, who has reached the third round of the WTA 1000 event in Miami, also spoke about feeling “adopted” by the Filipino crowd, which turned out in large numbers to support Eala.
Iva Jovic Gets Honest on Getting ‘Adopted’ by the Filipino Fans While Teaming Up With Alexandra Eala
Fans were eager to see two of the tour’s fast-rising young talents, Iva Jovic and Alexandra Eala, join forces in the BNP Paribas Open doubles. While their on-court chemistry was evident, they fell short against the formidable pairing of Jeļena Ostapenko and Hailey Baptiste.
Ostapenko and Baptiste secured a comfortable 6-2, 6-2 victory to advance to the next round, ending the campaign of the young duo. While the result was disappointing for Iva Jovic and Alexandra Eala, the former still took positives from the experience. The American later reflected on it during a conversation with Steve Weissman on Tennis Channel.
Alexandra Eala has built a strong global following, particularly passionate Filipino fans who consistently turn out in large numbers to cheer her on. Jovic said she was thrilled to partner with Eala, knowing it would bring strong crowd support. She appreciated the Filipino fans’ energy and felt warmly embraced, even joking she felt “adopted” while playing alongside the 20-year-old.
“I know it’s amazing. I told you like dude I am so excited for this doubles. Because I am about to have the most support I’ve ever had for a tennis match. So, I know they are there for her, but I love the Filipino fans too. And I feel a little bit adopted when I play doubles with her so, love you guys too,” she said.
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Both players have made steady progress at the ongoing Miami Open and will be aiming to wrap up the Sunshine Double on a strong note. Jovic, who entered the tournament as an 18th seed, opened her campaign against former World No. 2 Paula Badosa and delivered a commanding performance. The American dropped just three games and secured a 6-2, 6-1 win in just one hour and 16 minutes.
Meanwhile, Eala reached the fourth round, navigating a tougher path. She edged past Laura Siegemund 6-7(6), 6-3, 6-3 before dispatching Magda Linette 6-3, 7-6(2).
While Jovic awaits Talia Gibson in the third round, Eala faces a stern test against 13th seed Karolína Muchová. According to PFSN’s simulator, Jovic holds a 63% chance of progressing, while Muchová is heavily favored at 77% against Eala.
