NEW YORK — The future is bright for Iva Jovic.

Although the 16-year-old American lost Wednesday to Ekaterina Alexandrova in a hard-fought second-round match at the US Open, the breakout teen announced herself to the tennis world with a strong showing in Queens.

Jovic jumped out to an early lead by winning the first set, 6-4. Alexandrova bounced back with her own 6-4 win in the second set, setting up an epic third set at Court 12.

Alexandrova needed 12 games to finally put Jovic away, 7-5, and advance to the third round.

The instant-classic match lasted three hours and one minute. It came two days after Jovic upset Magda Linette in straight sets in the first round.

Jovic, who hails from Los Angeles, qualified for the US Open after winning the U.S. Tennis Association Girls’ 18s national championship. She intends to compete in the US Open’s junior event as well.

High heat

Those competing Wednesday had to grapple with more than their opponents, as scorching temperatures added an additional challenge.

Wednesday featured a high of 94 degrees. The temperature remained in the low 90s into the early evening.

“I’m sweating [like] crazy,” said Francis Tiafoe, who defeated Alexander Shevchenko in three sets at Arthur Ashe Stadium. “What was it, 95 degrees outside? Today was crazy.”

Tomas Martin Etcheverry vomited during the fifth set of his five-set victory over Francisco Cerundolo at Court 17.

“Weather and conditions are extremely difficult today,” said Alexander Zverev, who won in straight sets over Alexandre Muller. “It’s very hot, very humid, and the less time I spend on the court, the better it is.”

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