In an extraordinary display of power and finesse, Filipino teen tennis sensation Alex Eala toppled the top 1, 2, and 3-seeded players to emerge as the triumphant winner of the W25 Roehampton title in Great Britain. The 18-year-old Eala’s victory was infused with familial joy, as she dedicated her perfect run to her parents, Mike and Rizza, on their 25th wedding anniversary.
“ITF Pro Title #4!! Just in time for my parent’s 25th Anniversary tomorrow! Love you mom and dad,” Eala shared on her Facebook account on August 13, 2023, alongside cherished photos of her family at the match.
How did Alex Eala secure her fourth professional title, her second this year? Allow us to guide you through the magical journey that showcased the incredible talent of the young Filipina tennis star.
The Magical Run
Eala’s Gauntlet of Triumph
Navigating through the top three seeds was no small feat. From defeating No. 1 seed Priscilla Hon of Australia to triumphing over No. 2 seed Arianne Hartono of the Netherlands and finally dominating No. 3 seed Arina Rodionova of Australia, the tournament No. 7 seed Alexandra Eala proved she was in her element. The 2022 United States Open Girls Singles Champion’s journey to her fourth professional title since she turned professional in 2020 amidst the worldwide COVID-19 pandemic was a testament to her skills and determination.
The Finale Game: Eala’s Mastery on Display
What was anticipated as a fierce battle rapidly turned into an exhibition of Alex Eala’s unparalleled prowess. Dominating the 33-year-old third seed Arina Rodionova of Australia, Eala clinched the final with a solid 6-2, 6-3 victory. The young Filipina’s control and finesse were evident as she outmaneuvered Rodionova, ending the second set with a thrilling 6-3 win and a well-deserved new championship title, a trophy, and a $25,000 prize money.
Semi-Final Game: A Battle of Wills
In the semi-final, Eala’s resilience shone as she overcame second seed Arianne Hartono of the Netherlands in a nail-biting three-set match. Despite early setbacks, Eala’s refusal to yield turned the game around. The decisive 7-6 (7-4), 2-6, 6-1 victory demonstrated her mental fortitude and unwavering drive to win.
Quarterfinal Game: Eala’s Dominance
Facing the top seed, Alex Eala delivered an awe-inspiring performance against Australian favorite Priscilla Hon. With a decisive 6-2, 6-4 triumph, the world junior tennis girls champion showcased her might and mastery, advancing to the final four.
Here are Alex Eala’s Match Scores at the W25 Roehampton:
Alex Eala defeated the No. 1, 2, and 3-seeded tennis players to claim the W25 Roehampton in Great Britain. Congratulations! @ITFTennis Full Story coming up next pic.twitter.com/UTMXRd529L
— GoodNewsPilipinas.com (@GoodNewsPinas_) August 17, 2023
A Journey Beyond the Game
Alex Eala’s victory at the W25 Roehampton resonates beyond the tennis courts. Her successes at the International Tennis Federation (ITF) tournaments, including her first title this year and third as a professional at the W25 Yecla in Spain, her second pro title at the W25 Chiang Rai in Thailand in April 2022, and her first pro title at the W15 Manacor in Spain in January 2021, signify her rising status as a young professional.
A Shining Star
Eala’s journey is far from over. As she sets her sights on another singles title at the ITF W25 Aldershot GB Pro Series in Great Britain where she is in the quarterfinal match today, August 18, the tennis world watches in anticipation. Her undeniable talent, coupled with her strong sense of family and Filipino pride, makes her a player to watch, a beacon of inspiration for Filipinos around the globe.
SEND CONGRATULATIONS in the comments below to Alex Eala for winning the W25 Roehampton and WISH HER WELL at the ongoing W25 Aldershot in Great Britain!
Good News Pilipinas is a Lasallian Scholarum Awardee. TELL US your good news story tips by messaging GoodNewsPilipinas.com on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram, or e-mailing editor@goodnewspilipinas.com
