Alex Eala seeks to cap breakthrough season with Hong Kong Tennis Open title

Floyd Brenz., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
November 08, 2026

Photo Courtesy: PHKTO

Filipina tennis star Alex Eala is aiming to turn a year of growth and experience into another career milestone as she prepares to compete for the women’s singles title at the 2026 Prudential Hong Kong Tennis Open.

The 21-year-old secured her place in the championship match after overcoming Greece’s Maria Sakkari in a demanding semifinal, winning 7-5, 3-6, 6-4 in a contest interrupted several times by rain.

Despite the delays and shifts in momentum, Eala managed to stay composed and regain control in the deciding set. She described the encounter as particularly challenging, saying it required patience, concentration and a positive mindset.

Her next opponent is American Claire Liu, setting up a rematch between the two players. They previously met at the Guangzhou Open in October 2025, where Liu defeated Eala in three sets, 2-6, 6-4, 6-4.

For Eala, Sunday’s final presents an opportunity to measure how much her game has developed since their last encounter.

She said she has grown considerably over the past year and hopes to apply the lessons she has learned as she looks to improve on her previous performance against the American.

Eala’s campaign in Hong Kong has also pushed her to a new career milestone. Following her semifinal victory, she rose to a career-high No. 15 in the WTA live rankings, a significant climb from the No. 50 position where she began the 2026 season.

The Filipina also reflected on the importance of representing the country, saying she wants to give her best in every match and show the world what Filipinos can be proud of.

Her run in Hong Kong follows a landmark season highlighted by her maiden WTA Tour singles title at the Mubadala Citi DC Open in Washington, D.C., last August.

Now seeking her second tour-level singles crown, Eala said she is focused on enjoying the opportunity and staying positive, regardless of the result.

The Hong Kong final offers another chance for the rising Filipina to demonstrate the progress she has made throughout the season and close her campaign with a championship performance.