Fresh off a breakthrough stretch on the WTA Tour, Alex Eala is expanding her campaign at the BNP Paribas Open by stepping onto the doubles court once again—this time rekindling a partnership that has already shown promise.
The rising Filipina star will team up with American teenager Iva Jovic in the Indian Wells doubles draw, marking another reunion for the pair after their impressive run earlier this season. Their first challenge comes in the round of 32, where they are set to face a formidable tandem of Hailey Baptiste and former Grand Slam champion Jelena Ostapenko.
Eala and Jovic already proved they can compete with seasoned doubles teams. Earlier this year, the young duo made a spirited push to the semifinals of the ASB Classic in Auckland, turning heads with their chemistry and fearless play. Their campaign eventually ended against experienced Chinese pair Xu Yifan and Yang Zhaoxuan, but the performance signaled the potential of their partnership.
Now at Indian Wells—one of the most prestigious stops on the WTA calendar—the pair will look to build on that momentum. The tournament’s demanding conditions and deep field often test even the most established teams, but Eala’s recent surge in confidence could provide a timely boost.
The doubles appearance also comes as Eala continues a busy stretch on the singles circuit. Indian Wells marks her third consecutive WTA 1000 event, a sign of her growing presence among the tour’s elite. After climbing to a career-high ranking following a strong showing in Dubai, the 20-year-old Filipina is now navigating one of the most pivotal phases of her young career.
In singles play, Eala awaits the winner of the opening match between China’s Zhang Shuai and Ukraine’s Dayana Yastremska. A victory there could set up another blockbuster encounter with world No. 4 Coco Gauff, who defeated the Rafa Nadal Academy graduate in straight sets during their previous meeting in Dubai.
While much of the spotlight remains on her singles breakthrough, Eala’s return to doubles alongside Jovic offers another opportunity to sharpen her all-court game—and possibly make another deep run on one of tennis’ biggest stages.