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Monica Seles is calling for a fresh discussion about the future of women’s tennis after witnessing one of the most dramatic matches of the 2026 U.S. Open. The nine-time Grand Slam champion watched Iva Jovic defeat Alexandra Eala in a gripping third-round battle that lasted three hours and three minutes at Arthur Ashe Stadium.
Jovic eventually prevailed 7-5, 3-6, 7-5, but the final score only tells part of the story. The match featured momentum swings, extended rallies and remarkable composure from two young players who refused to give ground. For Seles, the contest was so compelling that she did not want it to end.
Monica Seles Sparks a Powerful Five-Set Debate
After the match, Seles shared her reaction through an Instagram story, praising the intensity displayed by both players while suggesting that women’s singles matches should potentially be longer at major tournaments.
“Last night’s US Open match was on fire,” Seles wrote. “The intensity in every single point was unbelievable. I wish it was a three out of a five-set match as I didn’t want it to end.”
Her comments immediately touched on one of the most persistent debates in professional tennis. Women’s singles matches on the WTA Tour and at Grand Slam events are currently played as best-of-three sets. Men’s singles matches at the four major tournaments, however, are played as best-of-five.
The idea of extending women’s Grand Slam matches has gained attention among players and analysts. Aryna Sabalenka has previously supported a proposal that would introduce best-of-five matches from the quarterfinals onward at major tournaments. Supporters argue that the format could provide greater endurance tests and create even more memorable championship moments.
Why the Proposal Remains Controversial
Not every leading player agrees that longer matches would be a positive change. Iga Swiatek and Elena Rybakina have raised concerns about the physical demands of adding more sets, particularly during tournaments that already place enormous pressure on players’ bodies.
Travel, packed schedules, heat, recovery time and the overall length of the tennis season are all important considerations. A best-of-five format could make Grand Slam matches more demanding while also increasing the risk of fatigue and injury. Players would need additional recovery resources, and tournament organizers could face scheduling challenges.
Still, Seles’ reaction highlights the extraordinary appeal of a match that keeps fans engaged from the opening point to the final rally. The battle between Jovic and Eala was not simply a routine three-set contest. It became an emotional showcase for the next generation of women’s tennis.
Jovic and Eala Deliver a Memorable US Open Classic
The match appeared to be heading toward a dramatic finish from the beginning. Jovic took the opening set 7-5, but Eala responded strongly in the second, winning it 6-3 and forcing a deciding set.
Eala then moved ahead 2-0 in the third set, putting pressure on the American teenager. Jovic refused to panic, winning five of the final six games to complete the comeback and secure her place in the fourth round.
The result was particularly meaningful because Jovic and Eala are close friends. They had even played together during U.S. Open Fan Week, making the intensity of their competitive meeting even more striking.
After the final point, Eala hugged Jovic at the net and wished her well. Jovic became emotional while discussing the gesture after the match, saying it reflected Eala’s character and kindness. She explained that Eala repeated the gesture in the locker room, away from the cameras.
“It says a lot about her as a person,” Jovic said. “She’s incredible.”
The victory moved Jovic into the fourth round, where she faced Coco Gauff. The matchup created another major test for the rising American, who had already captured attention with her determined performance against Eala’s friend and fellow emerging star.
A Defining Moment for Women’s Tennis
The discussion surrounding Monica Seles’ comments is unlikely to disappear soon. Women’s tennis has continued to produce intense rivalries, breakthrough performances and matches that rival the sport’s most famous five-set battles.
Whether the WTA and Grand Slam organizers eventually adopt longer matches remains uncertain. For now, the proposal raises important questions about fairness, endurance and entertainment. The Jovic-Eala thriller demonstrated that women’s tennis already possesses the drama needed to captivate a global audience.
As young stars such as Jovic and Eala continue to emerge, the debate may become even more urgent. Fans will ultimately decide whether they want longer matches, while players and officials will have to weigh the excitement against the physical cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Monica Seles say about the US Open match?
Monica Seles praised the intensity of the match between Iva Jovic and Alexandra Eala and said she wished the contest had been played as a best-of-five match because she did not want it to end.
What was the score between Iva Jovic and Alexandra Eala?
Iva Jovic defeated Alexandra Eala 7-5, 3-6, 7-5 in the third round of the 2026 U.S. Open.
Do women’s Grand Slam matches currently use a best-of-five format?
No. Women’s singles matches at Grand Slam tournaments are currently played as best-of-three sets, while men’s singles matches use a best-of-five format.
Which players have discussed longer women’s matches?
Aryna Sabalenka has supported the possibility of best-of-five matches in later Grand Slam rounds. Iga Swiatek and Elena Rybakina have expressed concerns about the physical demands.
Who did Iva Jovic face after defeating Alexandra Eala?
Jovic advanced to face Coco Gauff in the fourth round of the U.S. Open.
