Alex Eala Shines in Philippines’ First-Ever WTA 125 Tournament
On January 26, 2026, at 09:15 AM ET, the Philippines made history by hosting its first-ever WTA 125 tournament. Filipina teenager Alex Eala ensured a memorable start to the event, securing a commanding 6-1, 6-2 victory over Russia’s Alina Charaeva in just one hour and 16 minutes at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex.
Eala’s win was not only a testament to her skill but also a redemption of sorts, as she had previously fallen to Charaeva in straight sets at the 2020 W15 Melilla Open. This time, however, Eala was firmly in control from the opening serve, dictating play from the baseline and breaking Charaeva in the fourth and sixth games to cruise to a one-sided first set.
A Strong Start and a Brief Setback
Much like her recent Australian Open outings, Eala set the tone early, showcasing her prowess on the court. The second set saw a brief shift in momentum, with Charaeva coming out sharper and claiming the first two games, including a break of Eala’s serve in the second game. However, Eala quickly regained her composure, responding with her third break of the match by blanking Charaeva in the following game to reassert control.
A medical timeout was called due to some discomfort experienced by Eala before the fourth game, briefly interrupting the rhythm of the match. Once play resumed, the interruption had little effect on Eala’s performance, as she elevated her level and strung together five consecutive games to close out the contest. This impressive run included a hard-fought fifth game that saw her break Charaeva’s serve, effectively sealing the match.
Impressive Statistics and Upcoming Match
By the end of the match, Eala had converted five service breaks and posted an impressive 77% winning rate on her first serve, along with 61% on her second serve. These statistics underscore her control in key points and demonstrate her growing expertise on the court. Eala is set to face the winner of the all-Japanese matchup between Nao Hibino and Himeno Sakatsume in the second round, promising another exciting match for fans of the tournament.
As the Philippines’ first WTA 125 tournament continues, Alex Eala’s victory serves as a beacon of hope and excitement for the future of tennis in the country. With her commanding win over Alina Charaeva, Eala has not only made a statement about her own abilities but has also highlighted the potential for growth and success in Philippine tennis. As the tournament progresses, fans can look forward to more thrilling matches and the opportunity to witness the emergence of new talent in the world of tennis.
