Filipina tennis star Alex Eala continues to make the nation proud after advancing to the quarterfinals of the 2026 Mubadala DC Open, following back-to-back victories over two former champions of the prestigious WTA 500 tournament.
At 21, Eala is enjoying one of her best tournaments yet. She first overcame the 2024 DC Open winner, Zheng Qinwen, before taking down Leylah Fernandez, the defending champion, in the Round of 16. These wins show Eala’s growing confidence and her ability to compete with top-level players.
Eala initially faced Zheng Qinwen, who’s not only the Olympic gold medalist but also a former World No. 4. It was a tough three-set match. Eala lost the first set but bounced back to win 4-6, 6-4, 6-1, getting revenge for her previous loss to Zheng at the 2023 Asian Games.
Next, she faced Canadian player Leylah Fernandez, the seventh seed and defending champion. Fernandez had beaten Eala earlier in the year, so this was a chance for Eala to even the score. Eala dominated the first set 6-2 with strong baseline shots. The second set looked like it might go to Fernandez, who was ahead 5-1, seemingly heading for a third set.
But Eala kept her cool and fought back. She closed the gap, evened the score, and forced a tiebreaker, ultimately winning it 7-1. This secured her place in the final eight with a 6-2, 7-6(1) win. This victory is a highlight in Eala’s breakthrough season. Known for her fearless play and mental strength, she consistently proves she can go toe-to-toe with seasoned players on the WTA Tour. Her ability to overcome pressure was clear when she turned the tide against Fernandez from a difficult position.
Making it to the quarterfinals of such a major event is a big moment for Philippine tennis. Eala’s win over Zheng and Fernandez shows she isn’t just causing upsets anymore; she is proving her place among the best in women’s tennis. With confidence and momentum on her side, Eala enters the quarterfinals with the hopes of Filipino fans behind her. No matter what happens next, her journey in Washington is already a significant part of her blossoming career.
Sources:
- https://www.reuters.com/sports/tennis/wta-roundup-alexandra-eala-ousts-defending-champ-leylah-fernandez-dc–flm-2026-07-30
- https://www.wtatennis.com/tournaments/1045/washington-dc/2026/scores/LS029