After Singles Disappointment, Alex Eala Roars Into Doubles Quarters at Guangzhou with….
Filipina tennis sensation Alex Eala has once again proven her resilience and competitive fire. After a disappointing early exit in the singles draw at the 2025 Guangzhou Open, the 20-year-old rising star bounced back in commanding fashion — roaring into the doubles quarterfinals with a performance that reminded fans why she remains one of Asia’s most promising tennis players.
Eala, who partnered with Japan’s Himeno Sakatsume, displayed impeccable teamwork and court awareness as the pair overcame the experienced duo of Tereza Mihalikova and Olga Danilovic in a thrilling second-round match. The contest, which lasted nearly two hours, kept spectators on the edge of their seats as both teams traded blazing serves, quick volleys, and well-timed passing shots.
After losing a tight opening set, Eala and Sakatsume regrouped, showing remarkable composure under pressure. They took the second set 6–3, relying on Eala’s aggressive baseline play and Sakatsume’s deft touch at the net. In the deciding super tiebreak, the pair surged ahead early and never looked back, sealing the victory 10–6 amid loud cheers from the crowd.
Speaking after the match, Eala expressed relief and renewed motivation. “It’s never easy to lose in singles, but tennis is a sport of quick turnarounds,” she said. “I told myself to reset and focus on what’s ahead. Himeno and I have been working really well together — our chemistry is getting better every match.”
This win marks another milestone in Eala’s growing doubles career. While she continues to chase her dream of breaking into the WTA Top 100 in singles, her doubles success shows her versatility and adaptability on different court surfaces and against higher-ranked opponents. Over the past year, she has steadily improved her doubles ranking, recording several semifinal appearances and winning a title on the ITF circuit earlier in 2025.
Tennis analysts noted that Eala’s improved net play and tactical awareness are key to her recent success. Sports commentator Miguel Mendoza remarked, “What we’re seeing from Alex is a more complete player. Her transition from defense to offense is sharper, and she’s not afraid to take control of points at the net — something that’s essential in doubles.”
The Guangzhou Open has been a test of endurance and mindset for Eala. After bowing out in the singles round of 32 to China’s Wang Xinyu, she turned her disappointment into determination. Her coach, Daniel Gomez, praised her response: “Alex was understandably upset after her singles match, but within hours she was back on court practicing volleys and returns. That’s the kind of attitude champions have — they find fuel in frustration.”
In the upcoming quarterfinal, Eala and Sakatsume are set to face the formidable pairing of Gabriela Dabrowski and Luisa Stefani, both established doubles specialists with Grand Slam credentials. Despite being underdogs, Eala and her partner are approaching the match with quiet confidence and belief in their growing synergy.
Back home, Filipino tennis fans have flooded social media with messages of support, celebrating Eala’s determination and pride in carrying the Philippine flag on the international stage. Her ability to rebound after setbacks continues to inspire young athletes across the country.
As the Guangzhou tournament enters its decisive stages, Eala remains focused not only on winning but also on gaining experience that will serve her long-term goals. “Every match is a lesson,” she said. “I’m still learning, still improving, and I’m grateful for the chance to compete at this level. The goal is always to keep getting better.”
With her trademark fighting spirit and maturity beyond her years, Alex Eala’s performance in Guangzhou stands as a reminder that setbacks are temporary — but resilience defines true champions. Whether she continues her doubles run or not, one thing is certain: the young Filipina star is just getting started, and the world of tennis is taking notice.
