NEW YORK — Jeline Vandromme and Ivan Ivanov proudly added new accolades to their names on Saturday, clinching the US Open junior boys’ and girls’ titles in straight sets.
Vandromme triumphed over Swedish qualifier Lea Nilsson with a score of 7-6 (2), 6-2 in the girls’ draw, rallying from an early setback and navigating a tense tiebreak to secure the first set before cruising to victory in the second.
“I can hardly believe it at this moment,” Vandromme expressed on the court following her win. “I’m incredibly thrilled with my performance this week.”
The talented Belgian athlete showcased exceptional skill in New York, upsetting the No. 2 seed Hannah Klugman and No. 3 seed Kristina Penickova on her remarkable journey to the final.
On the boys’ side, reigning Wimbledon champion Ivanov seamlessly added another Grand Slam title to his impressive resume. The top seed defeated his fellow countryman Alexander Vasilev 7-5, 6-3 in an exciting all-Bulgarian showdown, celebrated by a vibrant crowd carrying Bulgarian flags.
“It was a full Bulgarian final with an amazing crowd,” Ivanov said, beaming with pride. “I’m really delighted this happened, and I’m thrilled to have achieved success today.”
In doubles action, sisters Alena Kovackova and Jana Kovackova emerged victorious over Vandromme and her partner, Laima Vladson, while Keaton Hance and Jack Kennedy claimed the boys’ title in an All-American final against Noah Johnston and Benjamin Willwerth.
