Alex Eala is now set to play against Yasmine Mansouri of France in the Round of 32 in WTA 250 Sao Paulo Open in Brazil come morning of September 10 (Philippine Date).
The Champ Takes On a New Challenge
After capturing the Guadalajara Open title, the 1st time WTA Champion from the Philippines, Alex Eala, will now compete in the hard court of Brazil against a French foe.
The 24 year old Mansouri is ranked No. 380 entering the competition.
Up against an opponent who just jumped to No. 61, odds are in favor of the 20 year old tennis legend from the Philippines.
This will be the first meeting between the two and the winner will take on No. 188 Julia Riera of Argentina in the Round of 16.
The Hard Court Journey Becomes “Harder”
With a title on his hand, there’s no doubt that opponents now have Eala in their radar. Considering the opponents she was able to defeat, it’s reasonable for them to be more wary.
In Alex’s stint at Mexico, she first beat No. 187 Arianne Hartono in Round of 32. Then in Round of 16, she beats Varvara Lepchenko and despite their match getting suspended because of the rainy weather, Eala still came out with a Set 3 victory. In the Quarterfinals, with barely an hour rest she defeated No. 280 Nicole Fossa Huergo. During the semifinals, Eala beats No. 418 Kayla Day to reach her 2nd Finals.
And in the much awaited Championship Match, Eala defeated No. 134 Panna Udvardy after a 3-Set thriller.
