Rising Star Alex Eala Secures Finals Spot in Guadalajara w/ Straight-Set Victory
ALEX EALA – Filipina tennis star Alex Eala showcased her trademark grit and power as she stormed into the Guadalajara 125 finals with a commanding straight-sets victory over American Kyla Day.
Alex Eala has advanced to the finals of the Guadalajara 125 after overpowering American Kyla Day in straight sets, 6-2, 6-3, in their semifinal clash. Eala endured a shaky start, dropping the first two games of the match. However, the 19-year-old quickly found her groove, unleashing a barrage of aggressive baseline shots to rattle her opponent. She strung together six consecutive games to claim the opening set, 6-2.
Riding on her momentum, the 2022 US Open girls’ singles champion broke serve early in the second set to build a 2-0 cushion. Day, the 2016 US Open junior champion, showed resilience by leveling the score at 2-all, but Eala responded with composure and precision. With blistering winners from both forehand and backhand sides, she pulled away to 5-2. Although Day managed to hold serve, Eala closed out the match with confidence at 6-3.
The commanding win earned Eala a spot in the championship match, where she will go head-to-head against Hungary’s Panna Udvardy, currently ranked World No. 121. Their previous meeting came at the Oeiras Ladies Open in Portugal last April, where Udvardy edged out the Filipina in straight sets, 7-6, 6-4, on clay.
This rematch, however, will unfold under different circumstances. Guadalajara’s high altitude is expected to make the ball travel faster through the air, a condition that could play into Eala’s aggressive all-court style. Known for her quick footwork and ability to dictate rallies, Eala will be looking to turn the tables this time around.
For Eala, the final represents more than just another match—it’s an opportunity to capture her maiden WTA 125 title and solidify her status as one of the sport’s brightest young talents. A victory would also boost her world ranking and mark another milestone in her steadily rising career.
The highly anticipated showdown is set for Saturday evening in Mexico (Sunday morning in Manila), with Filipino fans eagerly awaiting another historic performance from their homegrown star.
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