In a thrilling display of skill and national pride, Filipina tennis ace Alex Eala kicked off her campaign at the Women's Tennis Association (WTA) 125 Philippine Women's Open with a commanding performance. Facing a home crowd at the Rizal Memorial Tennis Center in Manila on Monday, January 26, 2026, Eala dominated Russian opponent Alina Charaeva, securing a straight-sets victory of 6-1, 6-2.
Eala's Emotional Victory on Home Soil
Following her impressive win, the 20-year-old world No. 49 expressed deep emotions, highlighting the significance of competing in front of her fellow Filipinos at this pivotal stage in her career. This event marks the first WTA tournament ever held in the Philippines, adding to the historic moment for Eala and local tennis fans.
"I just want to thank all of you for being here. It's hard to share what I'm feeling right now because I've been dreaming of this for so long. Thank you very much," said Eala, as reported by ABS-CBN News. Her heartfelt words resonated with the audience, underscoring the personal and professional milestone achieved through this match.
Match Analysis: Eala's Comeback and Dominance
After a swift first set where Eala took control, world No. 142 Charaeva attempted a comeback, starting the second set with a 2-0 lead. However, Eala quickly regained momentum, winning six consecutive games to seal her victory and advance to the Round of 16. This comeback showcased her resilience and tactical prowess on the court.
The match not only highlights Eala's growing reputation in international tennis but also boosts the profile of women's sports in the Philippines. With this win, she continues to inspire young athletes across the country, demonstrating that hard work and dedication can lead to success on the global stage.
