In a stunning display of skill and determination, Filipina tennis ace Alex Eala crafted a surprise victory over World No. 8 Jasmine Paolini of Italy, triumphing 6-1, 7-6 (7-5) in the early hours of Wednesday, February 18, 2026 (Philippine time). This remarkable win propelled Eala into the Round of 16 at the prestigious Dubai Tennis Championships, marking a significant milestone in her burgeoning career.
Dominant Start and Gritty Finish
From the outset, Eala's resolve to overpower the higher-ranked Paolini, a former champion of the tournament, was unmistakable. She dominated the first set, concluding it in just 25 minutes with two service aces that underscored her commanding performance. However, the second set unfolded differently, evolving into a tense and closely contested battle where both players exchanged leads, keeping spectators on the edge of their seats.
OFW Support Fuels Tie-Break Triumph
Inspired by the electrifying cheers from Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in the crowd, Eala clinched the tie-break 7-5, securing the second set and advancing to the third round. There, she is set to face World No. 32 Sorana Cirstea of Romania, setting the stage for another thrilling encounter.
Reflecting on her achievement, Eala expressed her elation in a statement published on www.abs-cbnnews.com, saying, "I’m really happy to have gotten through. She’s (Paolini) a great opponent obviously being top 10. To be able to compete with her at this level is a great achievement for me." This victory not only highlights Eala's growing prowess on the international tennis circuit but also serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes across the Philippines and beyond.
