The North American hard-court swing is here, and representatives of America and Canada have certainly been playing their part.
Despite the recent struggles of superstar Coco Gauff, North America’s talents have proved they are here to stay.
Earlier this week, American Ben Shelton lifted his first Masters 1000 trophy at the Canadian Open, while 18-year-old Victoria Mboko created history for Canada by defeating four Grand Slam champions on her way to the Canadian Open title.
At the Cincinnati Open, the last significant tournament before the US Open, various North American stars will be hoping to make a deep run.
One particular American star, who was formerly the second-best female junior player, has already created history at the Cincinnati Open.
Iva Jovic makes American history
Iva Jovic has a wealth of untapped potential, something few players on the WTA Tour can boast.
After all, the American was formerly junior world number two and won her first WTA 1000 match in March at Indian Wells: at the age of 17.
After winning two qualifying rounds, Jovic defeated Argentina’s Solana Sierra in the Cincinnati Open first round, triumphing 6-3 7-6.
As per OptaAce, Iva Jovic is now the fourth player under the age of 18 to win a Women’s Singles match at the Cincinnati Open, since the event first held WTA-1000 status in 2009.
The other three players to achieve this feat are Amanda Anisimova, Coco Gauff and Mirra Andreeva.
The American could make further history at the Cincinnati Open, if she can defeat fellow young star Linda Noskova in the second round.
Iva Jovic’s junior achievements
There can be little doubt that Iva Jovic has a bright future on the WTA Tour. However, the 17-year-old has already achieved a great deal on the tennis court.
The 17-year-old is a two-time junior doubles Grand Slam champion, winning both the Australian Open and Wimbledon in 2024.
Jovic, who also won the prestigious under-14’s singles event at the 2021 Orange Bowl, achieved a combined junior ranking of number two on September 9, 2024.
The American, ranked 88th on the WTA Tour, is certainly one to watch for the future. If she continues to perform in the manner she has been on the WTA Tour, the American could become one of the best players the sport has to offer.
