By Elamae Go
MANILA — Alex Eala may have fallen short of the ASB Classic final, but her performance in a dramatic semifinal against Wang Xinyu spoke volumes about her rising stature in world tennis.
The Filipina standout pushed Wang to the limit in a 5-7, 7-5, 6-4 loss, delivering one of the tournament’s most compelling matches. Eala’s resilience was on full display as she overturned a 1-5 deficit in the first set, refusing to surrender and ultimately claiming it through sheer determination.
Poised on the brink of victory in the second set with a 5-3 lead and a match point in hand, Eala narrowly missed a forehand that could have sent her into her first ASB Classic final. The missed chance opened the door for Wang, who capitalized to extend the match.
The deciding set became a test of endurance and belief. Eala continued to fight for every point, but Wang’s consistency in the closing games secured the win after two hours and 38 minutes of intense play.
While the loss was heartbreaking, Eala’s run in Auckland underscored her growth, composure under pressure, and ability to challenge established WTA players—qualities that mark her as a future star and a beacon for Philippine tennis. /IA