Alex Eala wins over former world No. 5 but exits Miami Open’s main draw
Screencap from Philippine Tennis/Facebook
It was a day of firsts for Filipina tennis sensation Alex Eala at the Miami Open 2024 qualifiers.
The 18-year-old athlete secured her victory against a Top 100 player in the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) rankings by facing off against former world No. 5 and French Open finalist Sara Errani of Italy.
With a commanding 6-3, 6-1 win over the 20th seeded and currently ranked 97th Italian, Eala earned her spot in the final qualifying round of the WTA 1000 event for the very first time.
Sharing her excitement on Instagram, Eala reflected on her recent achievement, writing, “A day of firsts at [Miami Open]!! First Top 100 win! First time through to the final [qualifiers] of a WTA 1000 event. Let’s keep pushing.”
View this post on Instagram
However, the Filipina tennis ace’s journey in the qualifiers round took an unexpected turn in the final match. Notwithstanding her strong start against Emiliana Arango of Colombia, ranked 123rd in the world, the young paddler faced adversity as she battled severe cramps.
Leading 5-3 and on the brink of victory, Eala’s physical condition deteriorated, forcing her to the ground in agony. Despite her valiant efforts to continue, her movement became limited, ultimately resulting in a 6-2, 5-7, 1-6 defeat to Arango.
Alex Eala was aiming to reach the main draw of a WTA 1000 event for the first time through the qualifying rounds.
