Teenager Jovic makes history with maiden WTA crown in Guadalajara

American rising star Iva Jovic captured her first WTA title on Sunday, defeating Colombia’s Emiliana Arango 6-4, 6-1 in the Guadalajara Open final, Sport360NG reports.

At 17 years and 283 days old, Jovic became the youngest player to win a tour-level trophy this season, overtaking Mirra Andreeva, who was 17 years and 299 days when she lifted her title earlier in 2025. She also became the youngest American champion on the circuit since Coco Gauff claimed the Parma title in 2021.

Ranked 73rd at the start of the tournament, Jovic’s triumph propels her to a career-high No. 36 in the world. Her rapid rise has been remarkable, considering she began the year ranked 206.

In the final, Jovic converted six of her 11 break chances and saved six of the nine she faced, closing out the contest in an hour and 35 minutes. Arango, hampered by illness, pushed her young opponent in the opening set before fading in the second.

After sealing victory, Jovic praised the Colombian’s resilience: “You showed so much fight and gave the people a show. It’s not easy starting out on tour when you’re young, but players like Emiliana make it easier because they always compete with a smile.”

Jovic has competed in all four majors this season, reaching the second round at the Australian Open, French Open and US Open, while exiting in the first round at Wimbledon.