MANILA, Philippines — Tennis sensation Alex Eala made sure to leave her Filipino fans rejoicing after winning via sweep over Alina Charaeva of Russia, 6-1, 6-2, to advance in the next round of the historic 2026 Philippine Women’s Open on a jam-packed Monday at the Rizal Memorial Tennis Center in Malate.
Playing her first game on home soil, the World No. 49 Eala displayed her caliber against the currently ranked No. 163 Charaeva after opening the first frame in a dominant fashion, 6-1.
Charaeva fought back and held a 2-0 cushion to start the second canto, but Eala responded and trailed by 2-1.
The Filipina took a medical timeout, and turned things around after obtaining a 3-2 lead as she put up more loaded forehand swings.
Evidently assisting her right leg, Eala showed why she’s the world No. 49 after widening the gap, 5-2.
The Filipina used a strong forehand swing to finish the match, 6-2.
"I just want to thank all of you for being here," Eala said.