By Benny Reyes
MANILA, Philippines — Alex Eala showed no signs of slowing down as she stormed into the semifinals of the ASB Classic, maintaining her strong form early in the new tennis season.
The Filipino standout overpowered Poland’s Magda Linette with a convincing 6-3, 6-2 victory in their quarterfinal encounter on Friday in Auckland.
Eala was particularly dominant in the second set, jumping out to a four-game cushion before Linette found her footing. Despite the Polish veteran trimming the lead to two games, Eala responded with renewed aggression, regaining control and sealing the match shortly after.
Known for her composure under pressure, the Rafa Nadal Academy product dictated play in the closing moments to punch her ticket to the semifinals.
“I’m really happy with this win,” Eala said. “I try to stay aggressive and trust my instincts. Facing someone with Magda’s experience is always tough, but I can feel my level rising, and that’s very encouraging.”