MANILA, Philippines — Instead of earning her spot through the qualifiers, Alexandra "Alex" Eala gets a direct main draw entry at the WTA 500 Stuttgart Open slated from April 13 to 19.
World No. 46 Eala gained main draw promotion after No. 37 Qinwen Zheng withdrew due to an injury as announced by the tournament on Wednesday.
As the top-ranked player on the main draw alternate list, Eala replaced Zheng and took her spot in the main draw.
"Alexandra Eala replaces Zheng in the main draw," the Stuttgart Open X handle "Porsche Tennis" posted on Wednesday.
"Unfortunately, Qinwen has to withdraw due to injury, but fans can now look forward to seeing Alexandra step in. We wish Qinwen a speedy recovery and hope to see her back on the court in Stuttgart very soon!"