Iva Jovic and Alexandra Eala traded shots at Arthur Ashe Stadium on Thursday before pulling their dads onto the court. The friends and rising talents turned the Stars of the Open exhibition into a family affair, handing their fathers racquets for an impromptu doubles rally that drew laughs from the crowd.
Jovic's dad was tasked with the serve while Eala's father lined up to return. When that plan fell apart, Eala stepped in as the returner to keep a short rally alive
Iva Jovic, Alex Eala Ready for 2026 US Open Runs
Before the lighthearted moment, though, both players were soaking in valuable court time. The exhibition gave Jovic and Eala a feel for the court ahead of the 2026 US Open main draw. Jovic jumped out to a 2-0 lead during their singles play and never let up, taking the one-set match 6-3.
"It's a great way to practice against a great opponent," Eala said after the showcase. "Amazing court and it really gets the atmosphere of the match."
The friendly vibes could turn competitive soon enough, though.
The US Open draw has Jovic, the 14th seed, and Eala, seeded 17th, on a possible collision course in the third round. At 18, Jovic is the youngest US seed in the women's field.
Eala, meanwhile, carries the Philippines's highest-ever Grand Slam seeding. When the 2026 US Open main draw begins Sunday, both will be looking to prove their Arthur Ashe preview was more than just a warmup.
