Alex Eala upsets Donna Vekic in ASB Classic thriller

Filipina tennis player Alex Eala achieved a significant victory at the ASB Classic, defeating Paris Olympics silver medalist Donna Vekic in a thrilling three-set match.

Eala staged a remarkable comeback after losing the first set 4-6, ultimately winning 6-4, 6-4 against the world No. 69 Vekic.

The match, which lasted nearly three hours, was fueled by chants from the Filipino crowd, making Eala feel at home.

This win propels the 20-year-old Eala, currently WTA No. 53, into the Round of 16 where she is set to compete against Petra Marcinko.

Eala quoted, "It's so special. If there's one thing I learned in 2025, it's that home is the people and not the place. Thank you everyone. Maraming salamat."

She also stated, "Donna is such an experienced and super talented player. She's definitely a decorated player so I really had a tough time today. I'm most happy about being able to compete and show up at a level like this after a tough pre-season. I'm proud about that."

In addition to her singles success, Eala and her doubles partner Iva Jovic also secured a victory.