Alex Eala falls to Elise Mertens in first round of Bad Homburg Open

Alexandra “Alex” Eala bowed out of the Bad Homburg Open singles tournament after suffering a 6-3, 6-3 defeat to Belgium’s Elise Mertens in the first round early Tuesday (Philippine time).

Eala raced to a 3-1 lead in the opening set, but Mertens showcased her experience by winning the next five games to take the set and seize control of the match.

The 30-year-old Belgian carried her momentum into the second set, claiming the first three games before Eala got on the board. Mertens quickly regained her rhythm and moved within striking distance of the victory. Eala managed to extend the match by winning two of the next three games, but Mertens ultimately closed out the contest in straight sets.

Despite the early singles exit, Eala remains in action in the doubles competition, where she is set to partner tennis icon Venus Williams.

—JKC, GMA News