It will be a battle between two good friends in the third round of the 2026 US Open as Iva Jovic and Alex Eala once again take to the court at Louis Armstrong Stadium.
A few days ago, the American and Filipina also shared the court in an exhibition match called Stars of the Open, a non‑competitive showcase that saw 18‑year‑old Jovic come away with the victory.
Iva Jovic Solid All Season
Throughout the 2026 season, Iva Jovic has consistently made impressive runs at all four Grand Slam tournaments.
At the Australian Open, Jovic reached the quarterfinals—a historic accomplishment that made her the youngest American‑born player to reach that stage since Venus Williams in 1998.
On the clay courts of the French Open, Jovic advanced to the third round before being eliminated. At Wimbledon, the American teenager progressed to the fourth round, the same as Eala.
Now at the US Open, the 14th‑seeded Jovic faces 17th‑seeded Alex Eala for an opportunity to advance to the Round of 16.
Alex Eala Has Yet to Beat Jovic
Coming in to this high-profile clash, the Rafa Nadal Academy graduate has yet to secure a victory against the world No. 14.
In their head‑to‑head singles matches, the 21‑year‑old Filipina is 0‑2 against Jovic, losing in the first round of the French Open this year and in the Round of 16 at the Queen’s Club Championships back in June.
There is no denying the strong connection between these two young stars off the court, but in their upcoming battle, they must put their friendship aside as they look to secure a much‑needed victory in their professional careers.
Alex Eala Next Match
- Tournament: US Open
- Event: Singles – Third Round
- Match: Alex Eala vs. Iva Jovic
- Date: September 5 (Saturday)
- Time: TBD (To be determined)
