Filipina tennis sensation Alex Eala delivered a stunning upset at the Miami Open, defeating Australian Open champion and world No. 5 Madison Keys in straight sets, 6-4, 6-2.
The 19-year-old wildcard entry celebrated emotionally after the victory, which made her the first Filipina to beat a top-10 player since WTA rankings began in 1975. Eala now moves into the Round of 16, where she’ll face Spain’s Paula Badosa for a spot in the quarterfinals.
Reflecting on her breakthrough, Eala shared: “Growing up, it was tough not having someone from your own country to look up to. I hope this inspires more Filipinos to pursue tennis.”
Eala, who trains at the Rafa Nadal Academy in Mallorca, was praised by the WTA for achieving the biggest win of her career.
Meanwhile, Keys admitted to struggling with her serve and feeling “flat” during the match, unable to counter Eala’s consistency and strong returns.