Filipina tennis sensation Alex Eala has secured her spot in the women's singles championship match at the 33rd Southeast Asian Games. The world No. 52 delivered a commanding performance in the semi-finals on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, in Bangkok, Thailand.
Dominant Semi-Final Victory
Eala overpowered her Thai opponent, Thasaporn Naklo, in straight sets to book her ticket to the finals. The match concluded with a decisive scoreline of 6-1, 6-4. This victory showcased Eala's control and precision on the court, setting the stage for a high-stakes final.
The Gold Medal Showdown
In the finals, Alex Eala will face another Thai challenger, Mananchaya Sawangkaew, who is ranked 240th in the world. Sawangkaew earned her place in the championship match after her semi-final opponent, world No. 53 Janice Tjen of Indonesia, was forced to retire mid-match due to breathing difficulties.
This sets up a classic Philippines versus Thailand duel for the coveted SEA Games gold medal. Eala, as the higher-ranked player, enters the match as the favorite, but will face the challenge of competing against a determined opponent on her home soil.
Path to the Podium
The 33rd SEA Games tennis event in Bangkok has been a platform for Eala to demonstrate her growing prowess in the sport. Her journey to the finals highlights several key points:
- Ranking Advantage: Eala holds a significant ranking advantage over her final opponent.
- Momentum: Her convincing semi-final win provides strong momentum heading into the gold medal match.
- National Pride: The match represents a chance to secure a major gold medal for the Philippines in a high-profile sport.
All eyes will now be on the finals as Alex Eala aims to convert her stellar run into a golden finish for the Philippines at the SEA Games.
