Iva Jovic has set up an all-American US Open round four clash against Coco Gauff after beating Alex Eala.
According to Associated Press, Jovic needed more than three hours to end Alex Eala’s run at the US Open.
Jovic beat Eala 7-5, 3-6, 7-5 in a three-hour, three-set, back-and-forth showcase of two of tennis’ emerging young stars inside Arthur Ashe Stadium on Saturday night, September 5.
Jovic said, “That felt like a marathon, and I felt like I lost my sanity five times over to win that match. But it’s really worth it for this feeling. I’m usually not one that shows that many emotions, but this one really meant a lot to me. It’s everything to have another match here at the US Open.”
The 18-year-old American acknowledged the crowd not always being on her side against Eala, a fan favorite from the Philippines, whose fervent following has become one of the biggest storylines in the sport.
But she rallied from down 4-2 in the third set and got a hearty ovation after finishing it off and falling to the court.
Jovic has made another deep run at a Grand Slam after reaching the fourth round at Wimbledon and the French Open and making the quarterfinals at the Australian Open.
She lost to Jessica Pegula in London, Naomi Osaka in Paris and Aryna Sabalenka in Melbourne.
Iva Jovic vs Coco Gauff
After winning the match the American tennis star expressed her gratitude to the lively crowd saying, “I love you guys, and you gave me so much. So much energy to just keep pushing and just leave absolutely everything on the court for the win.”
Looking ahead to their second career meeting, Jovic remains determined to fight until the final ball.
“I’m gonna be more than happy to just bring this fight and this energy and whatever happened, then I can, you, leave with my head high, but she’s playing some unbelievable tennis and is a really great person, so it’s gonna be an amazing match,” Jovic stated.
Notably, Gauff facing Jovic on Monday, September 7, guarantees at least one American among the final eight players.
