Alex Eala started with a strong performance at the WTA125 Jingshan Open, overcoming a challenge from Belarusian opponent Aliona Falei in a straight-sets victory, 6-3, 7-5. Competing at the Jingshan International Tennis Tournament Center in China, Eala, ranked 58th in the world, showed resilience by breaking Falei’s serve and maintaining her position in an extended second set. The late surge saw Eala dominate Falei, the world No. 322, shutting her out in the decisive 12th game.
Eala now faces Japan’s Mei Yamaguchi, ranked 268th globally, in the Round of 16 after Yamaguchi’s victory over Hong Yi Cody Wong of Hong Kong. As the top seed in this 32-player tournament, the 20-year-old Filipina is a favorite, though she faced challenges during the match with Falei as she initially lost momentum mid-match. However, her early and late-stage intensity in the second set helped secure the win, particularly capitalizing on Falei’s mistakes.
The Jingshan Open marks the beginning of Eala’s Asian tournament journey, which also includes upcoming appearances in the WTA125 Suzhou Open and the Hong Kong Open. Eala aims to break into the Top 50 world rankings after a notable performance series in the Americas, highlighted by a round-one win at the US Open and a title win at the W125 Guadalajara Open in Mexico.
Having tournaments closer to the Philippines raises expectations for her contribution to the national team for the upcoming 33rd Southeast Asian Games in Thailand this December. After securing three bronze medals at the 2022 Hanoi SEA Games, Eala continues to build on her successes and develop her career under the guidance of the Rafael Nadal Academy in Spain. Her recent performance reflects her growing prowess and determination to enhance her international standing in women’s tennis.