Iva Jovic Explains What She Finds “Amazing” About Aryna Sabalenka After Losing to Her in Melbourne

Teenage rising star Iva Jovic may have walked off the court in Melbourne on the losing end, but she left with something just as valuable: a deeper appreciation of what it truly takes to compete at the very top of women’s tennis. After facing world No. 2 Aryna Sabalenka, Jovic didn’t dwell on the defeat. Instead, she spoke with awe about what she called the “amazing” qualities of the Belarusian powerhouse.

For Jovic, who is still early in her professional journey, the match was more than just a result—it was a masterclass. “What amazed me the most was her intensity,” Jovic explained after the match. “From the first point to the last, she never dropped her level.” Sabalenka’s relentless aggression, thunderous groundstrokes, and fearless mentality left a lasting impression on the young American.

But it wasn’t just the power that stood out. Jovic also highlighted Sabalenka’s composure under pressure. Even when rallies got tight or games went to deuce, Sabalenka stayed calm, focused, and in control. “She doesn’t panic,” Jovic noted. “She trusts her game completely. That’s something I really admire and want to learn from.”

Facing a two-time Grand Slam champion on one of tennis’s biggest stages is a daunting task for any player—especially a teenager still finding her footing on tour. Yet Jovic saw it as a priceless opportunity. “Playing someone like Aryna shows you the level you need to reach,” she said. “It’s eye-opening, but also motivating.”

The match in Melbourne also revealed the gap between promise and proven dominance. Jovic had moments of brilliance—flashes of creativity, speed, and court sense—but Sabalenka’s experience and physicality ultimately told. Still, rather than feeling discouraged, Jovic walked away inspired.

“Watching how she prepares, how she moves, how she competes every single point—it’s amazing,” Jovic added. “You realize this isn’t just talent. It’s work, belief, and discipline every day.”

For fans, the moment felt symbolic: one generation handing a tough lesson to the next. Sabalenka, firmly in her prime, showed why she’s a fixture at the top of the WTA. Jovic, meanwhile, showed the mindset of someone destined to be there one day.

Losing in Melbourne may have hurt, but for Iva Jovic, the bigger win was clarity. She now knows what “elite” really looks like. And thanks to Aryna Sabalenka, she’s got a powerful new standard to chase.