Eala makes stunning comeback to topple Fernandez and reach DC Open quarterfinals

Neena Mae Rayos, Philippine Canadian Inquirer
July 30, 2026

(Photo Courtesy: Mudbadala DC Open | IG)

WASHINGTON – Philippine tennis star Alex Eala secured her place in the quarterfinals of the Mubadala DC Open with a gritty 6-2, 7-6 (1) victory over defending champion Leylah Fernandez, leveling their head-to-head record at one win each.

The world No. 28 started strong, taking a 3-0 lead in the first set before breaking Fernandez to win 6-2, but struggled in the second set as the No. 34-ranked Canadian, who holds a career-high ranking of No. 13, reeled off five consecutive games to force a tiebreak after trailing 1-5.

Displaying resilience, Eala regained her composure and dominated the tiebreak with a 3-0 start and closed out the match with four straight points in a contest lasting one hour and 53 minutes.

“I think patience was key there, and just trying to work it out, and have a strong mentality in terms of trying to find solutions,” Eala said.

She also notes her pride in fighting back against a formidable opponent she had previously lost to in the Stuttgart Open in April.

Now, she prepares to face the winner of the Polina Kudermetova versus Elina Svitolina match, aiming to reach another semifinal as she begins her North American swing in preparation for the US Open.