Alex Eala and Iva Jovic exchange messages after their first round match at Roland Garros

The talented WTA pair shared a warm embrace before and after their clash at Roland Garros, having also recently celebrated Eala’s 21st birthday together.

Jovic, who is only 18, now turns her attention to Emma Navarro in round two, but she has just sent a message to Eala following their meeting on the court.

Alex Eala and Iva Jovic exchange messages after Roland Garros match

Sharing images of the match and their embrace, Jovic posted on her Instagram: “One of those days I wish there could be two winners, [love] you [Alex Eala].”

Responding, Eala commented: “No one I’d rather share the court with, love you girl!”

It’s great to see such camaraderie between two rivals, who clearly won’t let their matches impact their friendship off the court.

And it could also be a sign of things to come on the WTA Tour, with Jovic and Eala among a generation of exciting young players with very bright futures.

They certainly know each other well, with a doubles venture at this year’s ASB Classic among their joint endeavours.

What was the biggest shock from the first round of Roland Garros this year?

The big difference between Iva Jovic and Alex Eala at Grand Slams

It was a great battle between the two rising stars, who were meeting on the WTA Tour for the very first time.

And it was the aggressive Jovic who battled to victory in the end, helping the teenager continue a fine Grand Slam record.

The American is currently playing in a Grand Slam main draw for the seventh time in her brief career so far, and has now made it beyond round one six times.

In contrast, Eala has only advanced past the first round once from her five appearances on the biggest stage.

Jovic now meets fellow American Navarro in the second round of Roland Garros, where she is also playing doubles.

She has decided to partner with Emiliana Arango in Paris, while Eala is also involved in the doubles draw with Victoria Mboko.