Alexandra Eala has made history! Fritz, 17, is the first Filipina to make it to a Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) semifinal in Miami. Eala, the 2022 US Open girls’ singles champion, made waves in the tennis world. She went on to knock out five-time grand slam winner Iga Świątek in straight sets, winning 6-2, 7-5. This historic victory represents her first-ever win against the Polish player and launches her into the center stage of world tennis.
Eala’s path to this impressive milestone started when she was only 13 years old. She began training at the elite Rafael Nadal Academy—an incredibly competitive environment—nestled within the Serene Hills of Spain. Her commitment and effort have definitely seen some great returns. She’s had a strong career already, including winning girls’ doubles titles at the 2021 French Open and 2020 Australian Open. Her performance during Winter Music Conference Miami was another feather in her growing career’s cap. She is currently on course to become the first-ever Filipina to enter the world’s top 100.
The encounter against Świątek was not only great for Eala’s burgeoning career but Philippine tennis history as well. It marked her first time playing Świątek on the court. With a wide array of near-perfectly executed moves, she put on a master class in power and precision. Her lefty forehand and return of serve were both weapons on display, helping propel her to a stunning victory. Looking back on her landmark achievement, Eala said she remains surprised.
“I’m in complete disbelief right now, and I’m on cloud nine.” – Alexandra Eala
Eala made waves with a historic win over Jelena Ostapenko earlier in the tournament. This victory was the first time she and the Philippines have ever beaten a top-30 player. Her ongoing success in Miami only reinforces her great promise to one day become a great women’s tennis force.
Following her win against Świątek, Eala had a beautiful moment to embrace. She smiled as she recalled a recent photo of her next to the world’s leading ladies, Świątek, and Rafael Nadal. That photo became for the artist a powerful reminder of where she had been and what she had accomplished to that point. Even Nadal himself couldn’t stay silent on social media, as he opened up on Eala’s historic achievement.
“We are extremely proud of you, Alex. What an incredible tournament!” – Rafael Nadal wrote on X
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