The next generation of tennis didn't just arrive in Auckland—they took over. In a pulse-pounding opening round at the ASB Classic, 20-year-old Alex Eala and 18-year-old Iva Jović delivered a masterclass in fearless tennis to eliminate the legendary Venus Williams and veteran Elina Svitolina on Monday, January 5, 2026.

After gritting out a grueling first-set tiebreak at 7–6(7), the young duo caught fire, overwhelming the seasoned champions with blistering pace and relentless court coverage to sweep the second set 6–1.

This statement victory sends Eala and Jović charging into the doubles quarterfinals and signals a massive shift in the 2026 landscape. 

By defeating two of the most decorated names in the sport, the teenage sensations have officially put the tour on notice. 

Their chemistry and composure under pressure suggest this isn't just a flash in the pan but the beginning of a dominant season for the sport's brightest rising stars.

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