Iva Jovic Captures Maiden WTA Title at Guadalajara Open Akron and Becomes Youngest Champion This Season
Guadalajara, Mexico – American teenage sensation Iva Jovic has clinched her first career WTA Tour title, triumphing at the Guadalajara Open Akron on Sunday evening. The 17-year-old showcased remarkable composure and skill to defeat Colombia’s Emiliana Arango 6-4, 6-1 in the final.
A first-time champion at 17 years old 👏
— wta (@WTA) September 14, 2025
Iva Jovic defeats Arango 6-4, 6-1 for her debut title!#GDLOpenAKRONxSantander pic.twitter.com/erAqD1dGhf
The victory marks a significant milestone for Jovic, who becomes the youngest American to win a WTA singles title since Coco Gauff in 2021. Her impressive run in Guadalajara is set to catapult her into the top 40 of the WTA rankings for the first time in her burgeoning career.
Throughout the tournament, Jovic displayed a maturity beyond her years, navigating a challenging draw to reach the final. In the championship match, she overcame a spirited performance from Arango, who was also vying for her first WTA title. After a competitive opening set, Jovic asserted her dominance in the second, sealing the historic win in straight sets.
Tennis Legend Serena Williams Praises a “Future Champion”
Tennis icon Serena Williams was quick to offer her congratulations and high praise for the 17-year-old American. In a statement to ESPN, Williams, a 23-time Grand Slam champion, expressed her admiration for Jovic’s performance and potential.
“Iva’s composure and her fight out there were just incredible to see,” Williams said. “To win your first title is a special moment, but to do it with that level of confidence is the mark of a future champion. She has all the tools and, more importantly, the mindset. I’m excited to see her journey.”
Williams’s endorsement is a significant honor for Jovic, who has looked up to the tennis legend throughout her young career. Being recognized by a player of Williams’s stature adds another layer of significance to Jovic’s breakthrough victory in Guadalajara.
