Alex Eala advances to WTA 125 quarterfinals

Filipino tennis player Alex Eala advanced to the quarterfinals of the WTA 125 Lexus Ilkley Open by defeating Valentina Ryser of Switzerland with a score of 6-1, 6-2 on Thursday.

Eala overcame a first-round exit at the French Open and continued her strong performance from Wednesday's victory over Lizette Cabrera of Australia with a score of 7-6 (4), 6-3.

Currently ranked 77th in the world, Eala will continue to prepare for Wimbledon, where she is guaranteed entry starting June 30.

Her recent success follows a first-round loss at the French Open but includes a doubles win with Mexican partner Renata Zarazua earlier this month.

Eala's victory marks a significant turnaround after consecutive early exits in previous tournaments and highlights her consistent improvement towards major championships.