Filipina tennis star Alex Eala reaches Miami Open semis

Filipina tennis player Alex Eala advanced to the semifinals of the Miami Open after defeating World No. 2 Iga Swiatek, 6-2, 7-5, on Thursday morning (Manila time).

Eala's victory marks a significant milestone in her career, as she had previously beaten former French Open champion Jelena Ostapenko and reigning Australian Open champion Madison Keys.

With Paula Badosa not competing due to injury, Eala secured her place in the quarterfinals without a match, making her journey even more remarkable.

The 19-year-old player made history by becoming the first Filipino to reach the quarterfinals of a WTA 1000 event after securing wins over Katie Volynets, Jelena Ostapenko, and Madison Keys.

Eala's latest triumph came despite Swiatek being a five-time Grand Slam champion, with Eala firing ten winners in the first set while capitalizing on Swiatek’s unforced errors.

With this victory, Eala will now face the winner of the quarterfinal match between Emma Raducanu and world No. 4 Jessica Pegula in the semifinals.