Alex Eala loses to Iva Jovic in US Open third-round thriller

The Philippines’ Alexandra Eala waves to the crowd after losing to USA’s Iva Jovic during their women’s singles third-round tennis match on day seven of the US Open tennis tournament at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in New York City on September 5, 2026. (Photo by Leonardo MUNOZ / AFP)

LIVE: Alex Eala vs Iva Jovic – US Open 2026 third round

MANILA, Philippines–Alex Eala congratulated Iva Jovic with a hug following their epic US Open third-round clash, smiled, and waved to the crowd in a graceful exit at Arthur Ashe Stadium on Monday.

The smile eventually wore off as Eala tried to hold back her tears the moment she reached the arena’s tunnel.

Eala came so close to reaching the last 16 in Flushing Meadows, but crumbled late in a heartbreaking 5-7, 6-3, 5-7 loss to her close friend and budding rival under the bright lights of the world’s largest tennis stadium.

The 21-year-old Filipino sensation was on the verge of a stunning victory, leading 4-2 with all the momentum on her side and the crowd rallying behind her.

But the World No. 14 Jovic showed steely nerves to outlast Eala, whom she has now beaten for the third time in as many meetings this season.

“I don’t even know what to say; that felt like a marathon, and I felt like I lost my sanity five times over to win that match, but it’s really worth it for this feeling,” said an emotional Jovic, who displayed maturity beyond her years.

“I’m usually not one that shows that many emotions, but this one really meant a lot to me. It’s everything to have another match at the US Open,” the 18-year-old American added.