Rising American star Iva Jovic offered a revealing glimpse into her interactions with Novak Djokovic, sharing that the 24-time Grand Slam champion has played a hands-on role in refining her game. Speaking during a recent Tennis Channel appearance, Jovic described not just the advice she receives but the level of attention Djokovic gives her matches, calling it both “surreal” and deeply motivating as she continues her climb on the WTA Tour.
How Novak Djokovic Is Mentoring Iva Jovic on the WTA Tour
Following her second-round victory in the Charleston Open, Jovic offered a candid look into her interactions with Djokovic during a Tennis Channel segment with Steve Weissman.
“Yeah, he’s given me some great tips,” she said. “I can tell that he has watched my matches, which is surreal. I’m like, ‘How do you even have time to do that? How am I on your priority list?’ But it’s incredible.”
She emphasized that the advice is not generic. “He gives me very specific tricks about some different tactics I can play, some different versatility that I can add into my game. So, I’ve been trying to do it.”
Jovic even shared a lighthearted dynamic with her coach, adding, “Me and my coach have a joke, ‘If you don’t want to listen to me, listen to Novak, at least,’ right? Because they’re saying the same thing, but it’s a little different when it comes from Novak.”
She also marveled at Djokovic’s ability to balance everything off court. “I don’t know how he does it. I mean, he’s a husband. He’s a father. He’s the greatest tennis player of all time. He knows seven languages. Everyone needs a time management plan from Novak because I don’t know how he does it, but he really makes time for young players and wants to help them, which is great.”
When asked about how often they stay in touch, Jovic revealed, “I have a direct line. I try not to bother him too much, but I text him throughout tournaments, especially when we’re at the same place, and every time I see him, we have a good chat. So, I’m hoping he stays around the tour longer.”
MORE: Novak Djokovic’s ‘Impressive’ Mentality Inspires Iva Jovic to Overhaul Her Routine
How Iva Jovic Built Momentum After a Tough Sunshine Double Outing
Jovic wrapped up her 2026 Sunshine Double campaign with disappointing results. At Indian Wells, her singles run came to an end in the second round, where she was defeated by Camila Osorio 6-4, 6-7(4), 3-6. Her doubles outing was equally short-lived, as she and partner Alexandra Eala exited in the opening round after a loss to the wildcard pair of Hailey Baptiste and Jelena Ostapenko.
However, Jovic found her rhythm at the Miami Open, putting together a much more clinical performance. She secured a victory in the second round by overwhelming Paula Badosa 6-2, 6-1. Though her run was halted in the third round by Talia Gibson, her cumulative success during the spring swing propelled her to a career-high ranking of No. 16.
She carried that momentum into the clay season at the Charleston Open, where she is seeded fourth. The American tennis star received a bye into the second round, where she defeated compatriot Alycia Parks 6-3, 6-2.
Looking ahead, Jovic will take on the 16th seed, Sofia Kenin, in the third round. This is going to be their first meeting on the WTA Tour, with the winner meeting either Badosa or the eighth seed Anna Kalinskaya in the quarterfinals.
