Alex Eala falls short in three-set US Open thriller against Iva Jovic

Floyd Brenz., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
September 06, 2026

Photo Courtesy: AFP

Alex Eala’s US Open run came to an end after a grueling three-set battle against close friend Iva Jovic at Arthur Ashe Stadium.

The 17th-seeded Filipina fought back after dropping the opening set, but the 14th-seeded American eventually prevailed, 7-5, 3-6, 7-5, in a match that lasted more than three hours.

Eala looked to have seized control after taking the second set, but Jovic rallied late in the decider, winning five of the final six games to secure the victory and a place in the fourth round.

The match carried added emotion as Eala and Jovic are close friends and had faced each other twice earlier this year, with Jovic winning both encounters.

Despite the defeat, Eala’s campaign included a return to the US Open third round, building on her growing presence on the Grand Slam stage.

Jovic advances to the fourth round, where she will face fourth seed Coco Gauff in an all-American clash.