Jovic edges Eala in chill pre-US Open exhibition
MANILA, Philippines — It seems Iva Jovic continues to have the number of her best friend Alex Eala.
This time, though, it was in an exhibition match.
Jovic defeated Eala, 6-3, in their Stars of the Open exhibition matchup ahead of the US Open Friday morning (Manila time).
The two competed at a jam-packed Arthur Ashe Stadium, in a light-hearted match.
The 18-year-old American started the match off with back-to-back games, going up 2-0.
Eala then made things interesting, tying things up at 2-all and again at 3-all.
Jovic, though, found the upper gear and blasted off.
But a lighthearted moment came in the match's ninth game, when the fathers of both Eala and Jovic played alongside their daughters.
A father-daughter moment to remember ????
— US Open Tennis (@usopen) August 28, 2026
Alexandra Eala and Iva Jovic bring their dads on court for a little friendly competition. pic.twitter.com/JGfvPZM9rv
Jovic would later grab the win, closing out her best friend in 54 minutes.
Jovic has defeated Eala in their previous two matches against each other — in the French Open and the HSBC Championships.
The Stars of the Open is a fan-favorite exhibition. A portion of the proceeds will go to the USTA Foundation.
The two tennisters will see action in the main draw of the US Open. Jovic will take on Magdalena Frech, while Eala, seeded 17th in the tournament, will face a qualifier in the first round.
- Latest
- Trending
