Alex Eala to face Naomi Osaka in DC Open semifinals

Alexandra "Alex" Eala will face four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka for the first time in her career in the semifinals of the DC Open on Saturday (early Sunday, Philippine time).

Osaka, a former world No. 1 who is currently ranked No. 13, captured four Grand Slam singles titles, winning the Australian Open in 2019 and 2021 and the US Open in 2018 and 2020.

The Japanese star reached the quarterfinals of Wimbledon before bowing to Karolina Muchova. She also advanced to the final of the Bad Homburg Open, where she again lost to Muchova.

Eala said she is looking forward to facing the former world No. 1.

"She is, of course, such an accomplished player. I think she's made waves on and off the tennis court for so many reasons, and there's so much respect to her for that. And, you know, I'm really excited," Eala said.

Osaka booked her semifinal berth by defeating Elisabetta Cocciaretto, 4-6, 6-4, 6-3, in the quarterfinals. In the Round of 16, she advanced after Ashlyn Krueger retired with Osaka leading 6-3, 3-1.

Eala, meanwhile, enters the semifinals fresh off a 6-3, 6-4 upset of world No. 10 Elina Svitolina in the quarterfinals.

The other semifinals match will feature Jessica Pegula and Diana Shnaider.

—JKC, GMA News