Alex Eala gets an unexpected quarterfinals berth in the Eastbourne Open after her Round of 16 opponent, Jelena Ostapenko, gets injured in Set 3 in their match last night, June 25.
Recovery After a Horrendous 1st Set
Eala struggled in the 1st set battling against the 2021 Eastbourne champion and current world No. 20.
Alex squandered several break and game points in the first couple of games that might have given her a foothold. Instead, Ostapenko rode the momentum and swept the set in dominant fashion, without dropping a game and was victorious in the first seven games of the match.
Final Score of Set 1: 6-0
The 28 year old Latvian even opened the second set with a service hold. But the pride of Quezon City, Philippines refused to fold.
The 20 year old Alex regained composure and immediately responded with a trio of games to seize the lead in the second set, turning the tide as Jelena began to falter with unforced errors and multiple double faults. A more aggressive Eala took control of the rallies and found success attacking the net. Though Ostapenko closed the gap to 3-2, the Filipina held firm, breaking once more and serving out the set to level the match.
Final Score of Set 2: 6-2
The deciding set opened with a gritty battle that went to multiple deuces before Eala clinched a service break with a backhand winner, signaling her growing command of the match.
She consolidated the break with a hold for a 2-0 lead. Ostapenko answered with a hold of her own but began showing signs of discomfort, calling for medical treatment on her left ankle while trailing 1-2. Though she returned to action, Eala continued to apply pressure and maintained her edge, bringing the score to 3-2.
It was then that Ostapenko, visibly struggling, took another medical timeout. After brief continuation, she informed the umpire of her decision to retire during the sixth game, citing the recurring ankle issue. The match concluded after one hour and 37 minutes on Court 1 of the Devonshire Park Lawn Tennis Club, cutting short what had become one of the tournament’s most compelling battles.
Final Score of Set 3: 3-2
When interviewed after the match, here’s what Alex has to say:
“It’s never a good feeling to finish a match like that. I hope everything’s okay with her because, you know, it was really a tough battle today, and I think both of us were on the brink,” said Eala afterward.
“You know, it could have been anyone’s match, so I wish her a speedy recovery and I’m super happy to be able to play again in this beautiful place,” she added.
“I’m super happy to be here. The same time last year I was in the qualifying of Wimbledon. So, I’m just counting my blessings, you know, enjoying every minute I have on court, and hopefully tomorrow I can bring a good level again,” said Eala.
The win gives Alex her 2nd victory against Jelena as they’ve also fought in the Miami Open 2025 Round of 64 where the Philippine star won in 2 straight sets.
Up Next: Quarterfinals Against Dayana Yastremska
Alex Eala is now set to face off against ranked no. 42 from Ukraine, Dayana Yastremska for the quarterfinals match which will be played later tonight, June 26.
Yastremska won against Magda Linette from Poland in the Round of 32 and Franceska Jones from Great Britain in Round of 16 after 2 straight sets.
Alex is now on a 4 game winning streak and is currently using this tournament as her warm-up in the upcoming Wimbledon Open come June 30.
