Alex Eala continues to break new ground for Philippine tennis—this time on the WTA stage. The 20-year-old Filipina ace stormed into her first-ever WTA doubles semifinals after teaming up with Ukraine’s Nadiia Kichenok to defeat Russia’s Polina Kudermetova and Kamilla Rakhimova, 6-3, 7-5, in the Guangzhou Open quarterfinals on Friday.
It’s another chapter in Eala’s rise—this time not as a solo act, but as part of a dynamic duo.
Facing the more seasoned Russian pair, Eala and Kichenok leaned on quick adjustments and fearless shot-making. The newly formed partnership found instant chemistry, breaking early for a 2-0 lead in the first set before closing it out in 33 minutes.
The second set, however, tested their resolve. After surrendering a 3-1 advantage and trailing 4-5, Eala dug deep—unleashing her trademark baseline aggression while Kichenok guarded the net with veteran poise. Together, they stormed back to win the final three games and clinch the match in just under 90 minutes.
For Eala, ranked No. 207 in doubles, the win marks her deepest run yet in a WTA tournament. Kichenok, a 33-year-old doubles specialist ranked No. 58, provided the experience that perfectly complemented Eala’s fire and youth.
Their chemistry has been undeniable since the opening round, where they stunned fourth seeds Emily Appleton and Tang Qianhui, 6-4, 6-2.
The road ahead won’t get easier. Standing between Eala and her first WTA finals appearance are Indonesian rising star Janice Tjen and Poland’s Katarzyna Pridankina—the pair who took down the tournament’s top seeds in a thrilling 3-6, 6-3, 10-8 upset.
It’s a battle of momentum and belief, and Eala’s confidence is soaring.
Earlier this year, Eala reached the quarterfinals of the prestigious Italian Open doubles with none other than American superstar Coco Gauff. That run hinted at her potential to thrive in doubles play—a promise she’s now fulfilling in Guangzhou.
For Filipino fans, Eala’s semifinal berth is more than just another win—it’s proof that she’s evolving into a complete player capable of contending on both the singles and doubles circuits.
From a lone teenager chasing dreams on clay courts to a young woman holding her own on the WTA Tour, Alex Eala’s journey keeps inspiring a nation hungry for a tennis hero.
And come Saturday in Guangzhou, that story could reach another historic milestone.