MANILA — Filipina tennis standout Alex Eala delivered a statement win on the international stage after battling past Olympic silver medalist Donna Vekic in the opening round of the 2026 ASB Classic in Auckland, New Zealand.
Eala shook off a first-set setback to pull off a 4-6, 6-4, 6-4 victory over the Croatian veteran, booking her spot in the Round of 16 of the WTA tournament. The match lasted close to three hours and showcased the 20-year-old’s grit, composure, and growing maturity on tour.
Facing the world No. 69 and Paris 2024 Olympic medalist, Eala started strongly, racing to an early 3-0 lead. Vekic, however, responded with authority, winning six of the next seven games to claim the opening set.
The Filipina regained her footing in the second set, breaking serve to build a 5-3 advantage. Vekic momentarily halted the momentum, but Eala refused to fold, closing out the set to force a decider. She briefly left the court for a medical timeout before the final frame.
Despite the interruption, Eala returned with renewed intensity. She fended off pressure in the crucial moments, including surviving Vekic’s break-point opportunity late in the match. After briefly stumbling with unforced errors while serving for the match, Eala steadied herself and sealed the win with a blistering forehand that left her opponent scrambling.
The Auckland crowd, bolstered by a strong Filipino presence, played a key role throughout the contest. Eala acknowledged the support afterward, describing it as a source of strength despite competing far from home.
Up next, Eala will take on fellow Croatian Petra Marcinko for a spot in the quarterfinals.
The victory capped a strong start to Eala’s ASB Classic campaign. A day earlier, she and doubles partner Iva Jovic also advanced after upsetting Venus Williams and Elina Svitolina in straight sets in the women’s doubles Round of 16.
Eala’s performance continues to build on her breakout 2025 season, reinforcing her status as one of Philippine tennis’ brightest prospects on the global stage.