Alex Eala advances to first final of 2026 after hard-fought Birmingham Open win
Around GMA
Around GMA
Erwin Tulfo apologizes for 'aggressive remarks,' Senate tension that stalled legislation CDO exec alarmed by 14 tons of daily medical wasteArticle Inside Page
Showbiz News
Alex Eala is one win away from a championship after overcoming a tough challenge and multiple rain delays at the Birmingham Open.
Filipina tennis standout Alex Eala continued her impressive run at the WTA 125 Birmingham Open, booking a spot in the tournament final after defeating Switzerland's Rebeka Masarova, 6-2, 4-6, 6-3.
After cruising through her earlier matches, Alex faced her toughest test yet in the semifinals. She appeared headed for another dominant victory after taking the opening set, but Masarova fought back to force a deciding third set.
The match was further complicated by lengthy rain interruptions, including a second suspension that came just as Alex was closing in on victory.
Despite the challenges, the Filipino tennis star kept her composure and eventually secured the win shortly after midnight in Manila.
"Really happy with the win today. It was such a great experience," Alex said in her post-match interview.
"It was such a tough battle today. You'll never know what's gonna happen. Rebeka played really well, and she put me in tough spots," she added.
Alex was leading 5-2 in the final set when rain halted play once again. During the extended break, she focused on staying mentally prepared for the resumption.
"I tried to relax. You never fully let go when it's a rain delay," she said.
When play resumed, Masarova made one final push, but Alex remained steady under pressure. Facing a 15-30 deficit in the ninth game, she battled back to deuce before forcing consecutive errors from her opponent to seal the victory and earn a place in the championship match.
The win sends Alex to her first final of the 2026 season and marks another milestone in what has been a breakthrough year for the rising Filipina athlete.
Awaiting her in the title round is Czech player Nikola Bartunkova, who was also Alex's doubles partner in Birmingham. The pair teamed up earlier in the tournament but exited the doubles draw in the opening round.
Alex will be looking to cap off her remarkable week with a trophy as she takes on Bartunkova for the Birmingham Open crown.
RELATED CONTENT: Who is Filipina tennis player Alex Eala?
