Alex Eala opened her campaign at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships with a hard-earned 6-4, 0-1 (ret.) win over American Hailey Baptiste.
A Hot Start in Dubai
Seeking redemption after an early exit at the Qatar TotalEnergies Open in Doha, the 20-year-old Filipina was sharp and composed for her tournament debut in Dubai.
Baptiste, who had climbed to a career-high No. 39 following strong showings at the Australian Open and in Abu Dhabi, tested Eala early. The opening set was tightly contested, with both players holding serve through the first four games before trading breaks to knot the score at 3-3.
Eala seized control in the seventh game, breaking Baptiste with steady depth and precise placement. She powered to a 5-3 edge and calmly served out the set in the 10th game.
Eala’s efficiency stood out in the first set, as she landed 77 percent of her first serves and won 70 percent of total service points. On the other hand, Baptiste’s three double faults proved costly in crucial moments.
Backed by a lively Filipino crowd during the featured evening match, Eala showcased her trademark court coverage and versatile shot-making to blunt Baptiste’s power from the baseline.
Injury Halts Contest, Tough Test Awaits Alex Eala
The second set hinted at another close battle. Eala pressed immediately, earning four break-point chances in a marathon opening game, but Baptiste held after multiple deuces. However, after taking a 1-0 lead and following a grueling rally, the American called for medical attention and retired during the changeover due to an apparent abdominal injury.
With Baptiste retiring, the Rafa Nadal Academy alumna advanced to the Round of 32 after the 57-minute encounter at the Aviation Club Tennis Centre.
While Eala admitted the abrupt ending was not ideal, the victory marked her first WTA 1000 win of the season and pushed her into a marquee matchup against sixth seed Jasmine Paolini.
Paolini, currently ranked World No. 8 and a 2024 finalist at Roland Garros and Wimbledon, received a first-round bye.
Alex Eala Next Match
Alex Eala vs. Jasmine Paolini (Round of 32)
Date and Time: February 17, 2026 (TBD)
Venue: Aviation Club Tennis Centre
