"I’ve been writing little lists this week" - Iva Jovic already looking ahead to 2026 as she ramps up preparations for substantial season

It has been a breakout year for Iva Jovic, who has emerged as one of the highest touted talents in the sport. With just one event left in 2025, she is already looking ahead to 2026 with a big year in prospect for the 17-year-old.

She has already left her mark on the sport, triumphing in the Guadalajara Open back in September for her maiden WTA title. She has got to enjoy a host of experiences, including playing against some of the best players in the world. The American had the joy of playing on the Asian swing, where she gained a lot of new experiences. "Asia was a lot of fun — so many new experiences, which you can expect from your first time there," Jovic said in an interview with the Tennis Channel. "It was almost like a preseason in a way. I just have one more tournament to go, so it’s all winding down, but it’s been a really fun year."

It has been a year with a lot of new experiences for Jovic, who is just taking it step by step. "I think it’s really tough because the level just keeps getting higher," she said. "But I think I’ve done a good job of climbing slowly — getting through the different stages. Starting at the ITFs, then the 125s, then the 250s, just learning at each level. So far, I’ve been doing a good job of climbing each little bit."

When asked what had changed the most in her game, she confidently stated her serve. "Well, my serve’s gotten better. As you can see in that clip — I didn’t used to be able to do that! But yeah, I’ve improved within the first couple of shots. That’s the big difference going from juniors to pros — everyone’s stronger, everyone can do more damage early in points. So I’ve tried to adapt and make little tweaks to my game."

Despite only being 17-years-old, Jovic has already moved out from her house and passed her driving test, showing the mature head she has got on her shoulders. "I just got an apartment and I’m getting a car in Orlando right now, so it’s a bit hectic," she said. "I’m actually going to do some test drives today! I’ll be in and out — back home with my parents sometimes, and also training at the National Campus in Florida."

While she may be a natural on the court, it is not the case behind the wheel. "I was so nervous. Everyone in my family’s a really good driver and passed easily. When I had my permit, I wasn’t driving great, so I had to work hard for it — I’m not a natural." When asked what car she was interested in, she answered: "I was looking at an Audi Q5. I drive my mom’s Toyota RAV4, so that would be an easy transition. I’ve also looked at Volvos and Fords — I like the Bronco."

Despite Jovic having one more tournament to compete in 2025, the next campaign is firmly on her mind, with her already planning ahead.

"Oh my gosh, there are so many things. I’ve been writing little lists this week — rough drafts," Jovic said. "Definitely a big physical block: getting stronger, faster, more explosive out of the corners; turning defence into offense. I’ll work on my serve, first ball, adding variety with slices and drop shots. I’ll do it in increments — different focuses each week — and then put it all together in points later on. Also some technical tweaks, shortening groundstrokes and getting better extension."