Iva Jovic touted for huge ranking breakthrough before end of campaign as Grand Slam glory predicted

The hype is real around Iva Jovic. Still only 18, the American defended her title at the Guadalajara Open in a statement title charges that backs up what has been a remarkable breakthrough campaign on the WTA Tour, which has resulted in her cementing a spot in the top 20 in the world. However, this may just be the start, as Rick Macci predicts her top 10 breakthrough to come sooner rather than later with Grand Slam titles also on the cards.

Jovic was flawless in Mexico, not dropping a set in the entire tournament as she disposed of Peyton Stearns in an immaculate final showing, not even facing a break point en route to lifting the title again. It is a second WTA title, both of which had come in Guadalajara.

It is not solely these title triumphs that have made Jovic into a superstar. Her form on the big stage has been very eye-catching, reaching the quarter-finals of the Australian Open to kickstart her year. A brace of last-16 runs in Wimbledon and the US Open has backed up those deep runs.

Still so young, there is no rush for her to reach the top of the sport, but her progress has been incredible. Many have predicted her for stardom in the coming future.

One of which is Macci, who has coached some of the best players the sport has had to offer, including the Williams sisters. Jovic will soon be ranked 13th in the world following her heroics in Mexico, a new career high. However, this pales in comparison to what the legendary coach has predicted her to be in the near future.

"Jovic top ten by year end," Macci wrote on X. "Top five for sure in 2027. Her feet are the wildcard and cornerstone of her options. No real technical flaws. Great spirit and fighter. Mindset positive and learning."

The main particular factor in this again goes back to her very young age. It is remarkable what Jovic is doing now, but as she continues to develop she will get better. An ominous signs for the rest of the tour. "Only 18 and getting experience of being there done that," Macci continued. "Permanent fixture in the top ten for a long time and will bag a few Slams."

The answer to that is a resounding yes, but it will be very tricky. She is 1,200 points behind Marta Kostyuk in 10th. A massive Asian swing is needed, and she is capable of doing so.

She made it to the second and third rounds, respectively, at the China Open and Wuhan Open. There is the chance of gaining a whole load of points in Asia with other WTA 500 tournaments following. Jovic is full of confidence and momentum. It was not an easy run in Guadalajara, but she battered her opponents.

Her chances of getting in the WTA Finals are unlikely at this point, but a couple of deep runs get her right back in contention. Sitting 11th in the WTA race, she will need to gain 1,500 ranking points just to get level with the qualifying spots at this current point in time.

That WTA Finals debut dream may have to wait until next year. But there is still time to climb the WTA rankings in the near future. She will not compete in the events in Singapore or Seoul next week, but it is still a quick changeover as she looks to get to grips with the tennis in Asia. The China Open in Beijing is first, taking place from September 28 to October 11.