Novak Djokovic Like You Have Never Seen Him: Iva Jovic Shares Tips From The Great

Last Updated:January 24, 2026, 09:04 IST

Iva Jovic shares Novak Djokovic's advice after her Australian Open victory over Jasmine Paolini, marking her first Grand Slam second week appearance.

Novak Djokovic shared some tips with the young Iva Jovic (Picture credit: AP)

United States’ tennis star Iva Jovic has revealed the tips that she got from 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic ahead of her Australian Open campaign, as the former was visibly overwhelmed when speaking after her big win over Jasmine Paolini.

Jovic, the 18-year-old from Los Angeles and No. 29 seed in the women’s singles, stunned seventh seed Paolini in the third round in straight sets. The victory marked her first-ever advancement to the second week of a Grand Slam and her maiden top-10 win.

Earlier in the year’s first Major, Jovic had expressed her desire to meet Djokovic in person, a wish that came true before her third-round match. After her 6-2, 7-6 (7-3) victory over Paolini, she shared some of the advice Djokovic had given her leading up to the match.

“I spoke to Novak yesterday, a little bit, so it was incredible and he gave me very attentive tips for my game and something I can try and incorporate into this match I just played, so that was one of the things at the forefront of my mind because when Novak gives you some advice, you follow it," Jovic said.

“It was just to open up the court a little bit better, to not rush into the shots all the time, find some more width, so I tried to do that and it ended well," Jovic added.

Minutes later, at the same press conference, Jovic lauded Djokovic for his kindness, intelligence and generosity in sharing his extensive tennis knowledge and experience with young players.

“I think he is almost even kinder and even more attentive outside the cameras than he is portrayed. It was amazing. He is so intelligent and smart and really wants to help the younger generation, so I am really grateful to have that advice," Jovic said.

She will face Yulia Putintseva, the 31-year-old World No. 94 from Kazakhstan, in the women’s singles fourth round at the Australian Open.

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