Jovic: "What Djokovic did with me is surreal"

Streaming French Open live tennis

🎾 Matteo Berrettini vs Matteo Arnaldi

1. Sign up with Bet365 here
2. Make your first deposit of at least €5
3. Go to the “Live” section and watch every match

Watch the match on Bet365

 PUBLICIDAD

Register at bet365, deposit €5 or more into your account and you will receive 100% of your eligible deposit in Bet Credits (up to €100). New customers only. Terms apply. Winnings do not include the value of Bet Credits. Maximum prizes, game restrictions, time limits and terms apply. Registration required.

At 18, Iva Jovic is starting to make her mark on the circuit with an unusual mix at her age of talent, discipline, and maturity. Her recent victory at the WTA 500 Charleston 2026 not only confirmed her competitive growth but also refocused attention on a distinguishing detail: her close relationship with Novak Djokovic, a key figure in her development.

The young American doesn't hide the influence of the Serbian, both technically and mentally, in a bond that goes beyond mere admiration. One could expect Novak Djokovic to be friendly and interested in a young player of Balkan descent with undeniable talent, but not to be as involved as revealed by Iva Jovic herself in her words for TennisChannel.

These are the details of the incredible relationship between Jovic and Djokovic

Direct Inspiration from the GOAT

During a match, Jovic uttered a phrase that captures that connection well. "I was trying to be like Novak in the return," explained the American, openly acknowledging that she aims to replicate one of Djokovic's greatest hallmarks.

It's not a superficial reference. Iva has had direct contact with Djokovic and has received specific advice about her game. "He has given me very specific advice on tactics and how to add more versatility to my tennis," said the young player, even surprised that the Serbian follows her matches.

That detail never ceases to impress her. "It's surreal that he watches my matches; I don't even know how he finds time to do so," she confessed, showing the impact it has for a player of her age to receive attention from the considered best in history.

A Close and Constant Relationship

Far from being occasional, the communication between them is fluid. "I have direct contact with him, I try not to bother too much, but I write to him during tournaments," explained Jovic, describing a closer relationship than one might imagine. When they meet on the circuit, the contact is even more natural. "Every time I see him, we have good conversations," she added, making it clear that Djokovic plays a mentor role in her progression.

Beyond tennis, what impresses her the most is his ability to juggle everything. "He is a husband, father, speaks seven languages... everyone needs a time management plan like his," she commented with a laugh, reflecting admiration for his figure off the court and highlighting how special the Serbian is.

Learning from the Best... and Applying It

Djokovic's impact goes beyond theory. Jovic tries to incorporate those pieces of advice into her daily life, even within her interactions with the team. "My coach and I have a joke: if you don't want to listen to me, listen to Novak," she recounted, showing how the message gains weight when it comes from the Serbian.

This learning is reflected in her competitive approach, becoming increasingly solid. After a tough start in Charleston, she managed to recover quickly. "It was a good mental recovery; I managed to regroup and didn't lose serve again," explained Jovic, revealing an uncommon strength for her age.

More than just tennis: mentality and growth

Beyond results, the young American sees her career as a process of personal growth. "Tennis is a path of self-discovery; it makes you aware of your own strengths and weaknesses," she stated, showing a very mature perspective. In that sense, she also finds parallels with readings like The Alchemist. "If I manage to become mentally strong in this sport, everything else will be easier," she affirmed, convinced that the demands of the circuit are shaping her as a person.

With discipline inherited from her family environment and such a powerful reference as Novak Djokovic, the young Iva Jovic seems clear on the path to follow. "I'm in the first chapters of my story," she confessed. A promising start where, guided by the best, she begins to write her own journey in professional tennis.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Jovic: "Lo de Djokovic conmigo es surrealista"