Alexandra “Alex” Eala, a 19-year-old Filipino tennis sensation, made history by defeating world No. 2 Iga Swiatek 6-2, 7-5 in the quarterfinals of the Miami Open. This massive upset marked Eala’s second Top 10 win and her first WTA semifinal appearance.
Eala, a wild card entry, demonstrated remarkable poise and skill, particularly in the first set, where she dominated Swiatek. The Filipino teenager’s left-handed forehand was a standout, earning her three consecutive games to break for 3-1 in the first set.
Swiatek, the 2022 champion, attempted to mount a comeback in the second set, taking a 4-2 lead. However, Eala’s relentless aggression and accurate returning allowed her to overturn the deficit and secure the win.
Eala’s victory is a milestone for Philippine tennis, as she becomes the first player from the country to reach a WTA semifinal. Her win also guarantees her entry into the Top 100 of the PIF WTA Rankings next Monday.
In a post-match interview, Eala attributed her success to her ability to compartmentalize and stay focused on the present moment. She credited her family, particularly her mother, Rizza Maniego-Eala, and her uncle, Noli Eala, for instilling in her the values of discipline and professionalism.
Eala’s next challenge will be facing either No. 4 seed Jessica Pegula or Emma Raducanu in the semifinals, as she bids to reach her first career WTA final.
