Alex Eala reaches Dubai Tennis Championships Round of 32 as Hailey Baptiste retires

Alexandra “Alex” Eala advanced to the Round of 32 of the Dubai Tennis Championships after Hailey Baptiste retired during the second set of their match.

Playing in front of a crowd that included many Filipinos cheering her on, world No. 40 Eala claimed the opening set, 6–4.

Baptiste fought back at the start of the second set, pushing Eala to multiple deuces. However, after taking a 1–0 lead, the American retired due to an apparent abdominal injury.

"I really hope Hailey is okay and will bounce back soon," a concerned Eala said.

"I'm super happy to be in the next round. These tournaments are such great experiences for me, especially playing in front of the best crowd ever. I'm really doing my best to try to enjoy every moment I have on court."

In the Round of 32, Eala will face world No. 8 and sixth seed Jasmine Paolini of Italy, who received a first-round bye.

The match is expected to be played on Tuesday, although the official schedule has yet to be finalized.

—JKC, GMA Integrated News