Rising Star Iva Jovic Grateful for Novak Djokovic's Mentorship

Jovic reveals the 24-time Grand Slam champion offers hands-on advice and support despite her young career.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 2:18am

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American tennis player Iva Jovic has opened up about the unexpected mentorship she receives from legendary player Novak Djokovic. Jovic shared that the 24-time Grand Slam champion closely follows her matches and provides specific tactical advice to help refine her game, which she finds both 'surreal' and deeply motivating as she continues her climb on the WTA Tour.

Why it matters

Djokovic's willingness to mentor up-and-coming players like Jovic is seen as a testament to his commitment to growing the sport. As one of the all-time greats, Djokovic's guidance can have a significant impact on the development of promising young talents, helping them navigate the challenges of the professional tour.

The details

In a recent interview, Jovic revealed that Djokovic has been actively involved in providing her with tactical advice and feedback on her matches. She said that Djokovic gives her 'very specific tricks about some different tactics' and that she can tell he has been watching her play. Jovic even joked that she and her coach have a running joke that if she doesn't want to listen to her coach, she should at least listen to Djokovic, as they are often offering the same advice.

  • Jovic shared these insights following her second-round victory at the Charleston Open in April 2026.

The players

Iva Jovic

A rising American tennis player who is currently ranked a career-high No. 16 on the WTA Tour.

Novak Djokovic

A 24-time Grand Slam champion and one of the greatest tennis players of all time, who has taken an active interest in mentoring young players like Jovic.

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What they’re saying

“Yeah, he's given me some great tips. I can tell that he has watched my matches, which is surreal. I'm like, 'How do you even have time to do that? How am I on your priority list?' But it's incredible.”

— Iva Jovic, Tennis Player

“He gives me very specific tricks about some different tactics I can play, some different versatility that I can add into my game. So, I've been trying to do it.”

— Iva Jovic, Tennis Player

“I don't know how he does it. I mean, he's a husband. He's a father. He's the greatest tennis player of all time. He knows seven languages. Everyone needs a time management plan from Novak because I don't know how he does it, but he really makes time for young players and wants to help them, which is great.”

— Iva Jovic, Tennis Player

What’s next

Jovic will face 16th seed Sofia Kenin in the third round of the Charleston Open, with the winner set to meet either Paula Badosa or Anna Kalinskaya in the quarterfinals.

The takeaway

Djokovic's willingness to mentor rising stars like Jovic demonstrates his commitment to growing the sport and supporting the next generation of tennis talent. Jovic's insights highlight the invaluable guidance she is receiving from one of the all-time greats, which could prove crucial in her continued development on the professional tour.