Novak Djokovic has never been shy about backing young talent, and he followed the same approach while talking about Iva Jovic recently.

Following his third-round victory over Botic van de Zandschulp at the Australian Open, Djokovic talked about the 18-year-old American tennis player during his on-court interview. The 24-time Grand Slam champion described Jovic as "a great girl," along with seeing a "future champion" in her.

He said, "I really like her, she is a great girl and [has] a really nice family... She has all the tools to be the future champion and future number one, so that’s exactly what I wish for her."

Jovic’s 6-0, 6-1 straight-sets win over Yulia Putintseva in the fourth round of the Australian Open displayed that Djokovic recognized her potential correctly. But his opinion wasn't based on a single observation.

Following Jovic's third-round victory over Jasmine Paolini on January 23, she revealed how a few "attentive tips" from the 38-year-old helped her get the better of her opponent.

So, Djokovic formed his opinion of Jovic while understanding her technique, which he used to provide her with "tips." However, the 18-year-old did something unusual with those tips.

Iva Jovic revealed Novak Djokovic's tips to the world

Out of her innocence, Jovic revealed much more about her conversation with Djokovic than the 38-year-old wished to. The American didn't just disclose that Djokovic provided her with "attentive tips," she also publicized what they were.

"It was just to open up the court a little bit better, to not rush into the shots all the time, find some more width," said Jovic.

Djokovic coped with Jovic's act, saying "it's fine," but he probably wanted her to keep them secret. He said, "I saw she did give away in her press conference what I told her, that’s fine."

But do you think Djokovic's tips will help Jovic get through the current best in the world? Point to note, she faces Aryna Sabalenka next.

Written by

Fatema Kapasi

Edited by

Souvik Roy