Alex Eala Triumphs in WTA 125 Philippine Women's Open Round of 16
Filipina tennis ace Alex Eala delivered a commanding performance on Wednesday evening, January 28, 2026, at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex in Manila. She defeated Japanese opponent Sakatsume with a decisive score of 6-4, 6-0 in the Round of 16, securing her advancement to the quarterfinals of the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) 125 Philippine Women’s Open.
First Set Challenge and Comeback
In the initial set, Eala faced a tough challenge as Sakatsume took an early lead, going up 4-3 in the first seven games. However, the 20-year-old Filipina quickly adjusted her strategy, rallying to win three consecutive games and clinch the set. This turnaround highlighted her mental fortitude and ability to adapt under pressure.
Dominant Second Set Performance
The second set saw Eala in complete control, as she dominated the court without giving Sakatsume any opportunity to threaten. She maintained a flawless performance, winning all games to seal the match with a convincing 6-0 score. This display of skill and focus underscored her growing prowess on the professional tennis circuit.
Eala's Reflections on the Match
After the victory, Eala acknowledged the difficulties she encountered in the first set. "But I’m really happy with how I fought through it. I think there were definitely some points na parang sa kaniya na, but I was able to steal a couple, and that’s what pushed me through in the end," she stated. Her comments reveal a resilient mindset and determination to overcome obstacles during high-stakes matches.
Quarterfinal Showdown
As of press time, Eala continued her campaign in the tournament, facing Colombian player Camila Osorio in the quarterfinals on Thursday evening, January 29, 2026. This next match promises to be another exciting chapter in her journey at the WTA 125 Philippine Women's Open, as she aims to build on her momentum and advance further in the competition.
