Jovic expresses gratitude to Djokovic for his guidance: He has watched many of my matches, and I learned my return of serve from him!

In the second round of the WTA500 Charleston tournament, Jovic comfortably defeated Parks 6-3, 6-2 to advance to the next round. Her next opponent will be last year's runner-up and 16th seed Kenin, who eliminated Andreescu 6-4, 6-4, ending a streak of eight consecutive singles losses.

After the match, the American rising star participated in an interview on Tennis Channel, where she openly expressed her admiration and gratitude for Serbian tennis legend Novak Djokovic, attributing her victory in today's match to him.

Facing Parks, known for her powerful serve, Jovic performed exceptionally well in her return of serve during the match. In the interview, she revealed that she mentally reminded herself to handle the ball like Djokovic, "I tried to return serve like Novak, adjusting my positioning forward and backward to find variations."

Jovic frankly told host Steve Weissman that she holds the utmost respect and affection for the Serbian tennis king. She disclosed that Djokovic has indeed watched many of her matches and provided her with very specific advice.

"I could tell he really watched my matches, it's unreal. I thought, 'How do you have time for this? How am I on your list of people to watch?'" Jovic candidly expressed her surprise and emotion.

Regarding the advice, Jovic revealed that Djokovic's suggestions were not general but highly targeted tactical advice and diverse playing strategies. "He gave me some great advice, very specific tips about different tactics I could try and variety I could add to my game, and I've been trying to implement them."

More interestingly, this led to an "inside joke" between Jovic and her coach. "My coach and I often joke, 'If you don't want to listen to me, at least listen to Novak.'" Jovic recalled with a laugh, "They're essentially saying the same thing, but hearing it from Novak feels different. But listening to the GOAT is always right!"

When asked about her most profound impression of Djokovic, Jovic almost immediately focused on aspects beyond the court. "I don't know how he does it. He's a husband, a father, the greatest tennis player in history, speaks seven languages. I think everyone should learn from Novak about time management. I truly don't know how he does it, but he genuinely makes time for young players and wants to help them. It's amazing."

This praise of his "time management mastery" quickly spread on social platforms. Some fans joked, "Djokovic's time management skills are indeed GOAT-level: 24 Grand Slam titles, two children, seven languages, and still finds time to watch young players' match footage and give advice. His schedule is inhuman." Others reflected, "This is why he's an idol—not just for his skills, but for his attitude toward younger players off the court."

In fact, during this year's Australian Open, Jovic had already received guidance from Djokovic and made her first career breakthrough to a Grand Slam quarterfinal. At that time, she revealed in an interview that Djokovic's advice to her was: "Better use of court space, don't rush your shots, find more width."

Jovic also shared a detail that many fans envy—she has direct contact with Djokovic. "I have his contact info. He told me I can reach out anytime if I have questions, but I try not to bother him too much." Jovic admitted, "But sometimes during tournaments I do text him, especially when we're at the same event. Every time I see him, we have a good chat. So I hope he stays on the tour longer."

The connection between Jovic and Djokovic stems partly from her Serbian heritage. Her father is Serbian, and Jovic often returns to Belgrade and Leskovac to visit relatives. Consequently, Djokovic is a national icon in Serbia, and Jovic has always regarded Djokovic and Seles as her greatest inspirations since childhood.

Regardless, Jovic is steadily expanding her territory on the WTA map with solid steps. On this growth path, having Djokovic's companionship and guidance is undoubtedly one of her most valuable assets. How many more surprises will she bring us? Let's wait and see.(Source: Tennis Home, Author: Lu Xiaotian)