Alex Eala authored another brilliant performance in the Round of 16 of the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships to beat Sorana Cirstea, 7–5, 6–4. And the win set up what promises to be an exciting, must-see match against American tennis sensation Coco Gauff, for whom Eala has only glowing words.
Postmatch, Eala took note of how Coco Gauff, currently the world No. 4, is an inspiration to a lot of young tennis players around the world.
“You know Coco [Gauff] is such an amazing person,” Eala said of her quarterfinal opponent. “We tend to forget that she’s just a year older than me. But she’s a great role model for so many. So, I’m really excited for that match, yeah.”
Prior to Eala’s win, the 21-year-old American survived a stiff challenge from Elise Mertens, 2–6, 7–6(9), 6–3, in a grueling three-set showdown.
Alex Eala and Coco Gauff Have Shared History
To make things more interesting, Alex Eala and Coco Gauff actually were teammates in the 2025 WTA 1000 Italian Open Women’s Doubles.
On the clay courts of the Internazionali BNL d’Italia, the American-Pinay tandem was able to march all the way to the quarterfinals before they were defeated by the eventual champions, Sara Errani and Jasmine Paolini.
Now, almost a year later, the two young tennis stars will meet again, but this time on opposite sides of the net. Eala is naturally stoked about the matchup.
“I think I’m in a good path. I think if I continue like this, the next match will be great. Yeah, I’m looking forward to it,” Eala said.
Alex Eala Next Match
Alex Eala vs. Coco Gauff (Quarterfinals)
Venue: Center Court of Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium, Aviation Club Tennis Centre
Date and Time: Thursday, February 19, 11:00 p.m. Philippine Standard Time (Start time is subject to change.)
