Alex Eala opened her 2026 season with a statement of grit, composure, and competitive maturity, grinding out a hard-earned victory over seasoned Croatian Donna Vekic to reach the round of 16 of the WTA 250 ASB Classic in Auckland, New Zealand.
In a match that stretched close to three hours and tested both players’ resolve, Eala clawed her way back from a set down to secure a 4-6, 6-4, 6-4 triumph on Tuesday night, Manila time.
It was the kind of win that underscored not just her growing confidence on the WTA Tour, but her ability to stay steady when momentum repeatedly swung.
The opening set saw Eala burst out of the gates, racing to a 3-0 lead and putting immediate pressure on the world No. 69. Vekic, however, drew on her experience to slow the tempo and methodically work her way back into the match, leveling the score and eventually snatching the set, 6-4, after capitalizing on key points late.
Rather than letting the setback linger, Eala reset quickly. She once again seized an early advantage in the second set and refused to blink as Vekic stayed within striking distance.
With the set locked in a tight exchange of holds, the Filipina elevated her level in the closing games, breaking at the right moment and holding firm to level the match and force a decider.
The third set evolved into a tense duel, with neither player giving ground through a series of deadlocks. At 3-3, Eala finally found an opening, stringing together two crucial games to move within one of victory.
Vekic managed to stave off defeat briefly, but Eala’s composure held as she closed out the match, sealing one of her most satisfying wins to date.
The victory sends Eala into the round of 16, where she is set to face fellow Croatian Petra Marcinko, world No. 82, with momentum firmly on her side as she continues her strong start to the year.
Congratulations to Alex Eala on a gutsy, confidence-building win to open her 2026 campaign—an encouraging sign of bigger things ahead on the WTA stage.