Eala eyes another history in last 16 duel vs Paolini

CEBU, Philippines — Alex Eala pulled off what is by far the biggest victory of her blossoming career when the Filipina tennis sensation dethroned defending champion Iga Swiatek in straight sets, 7-6 (11/9), 6-2, to barge into the Wimbledon fourth round late Saturday night, July 4 Philippine time at the Centre Court of The All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club in southwest London.

It was another history-making performance for the 21-year-old Eala, who became the first player from the Philippines to march into the last 16 of a Grand Slam event in the Open era after reasserting her dominance over the World No.3 Swiatek.

“I’m really emotional and maybe for someone like Iga who has won so many Slams, or someone like Serena or Venus, this achievement might seem small,” said Eala.

“But for someone who grew up in the Philippines... I trained with my mother and my grandfather every day after school with ruffled socks and chubby cheeks... so this is everything.”

After losing a 5-3 advantage, Eala remained resilient to fend off the Polish third seed in an excruciatingly close tiebreak, 11-9, in the opening frame that lasted one hour and 24 minutes.

Sustaining her momentum from that confidence-boosting win, the 29th seed Eala blitzed through a commanding 4-0 lead in the second set.

Swiatek won the next two games to trim the deficit but the pride of Quezon City who competed as a seeded player for the first time couldn’t be denied from setting another record.

“It’s difficult to describe. I’m in the second week of a Slam and it’s incredible for me,” said Eala, who fell to the turf in celebration with tears of joy streaming down her face while Swiatek hastily proceeded to the exit.

“Iga is a phenomenal player and a really nice person. I’m grateful to share Center Court with her, at Wimbledon of all places,” added Eala, who is now 2-1 in head-to-head record against Swiatek whom she first defeated at the Miami Open quarterfinals last year.

Eala will next face former runner-up Jasmine Paolini of Italy in another marquee matchup scheduled today (Monday, July 6).

She is aiming to become the first Filipino netter to reach a singles Grand Slam quarterfinal since Felicisimo Ampon at the 1953 French Open.