Alex Eala is set to face a familiar opponent once again at the WTA 125 Lexus Birmingham Open as she takes on Alina Charaeva in the Round of 16. After making quick work of Priscilla Hon in her opening match, Eala will now go up against a player she has already faced twice in her career.
Even in Head‑to‑Head Clash
Much like her previous matchup against Hon, the pride of the Philippines enters her upcoming clash with Alina Charaeva holding an even 1–1 head‑to‑head record.
Back in 2020, during the Melilla tournament in Spain, Charaeva eliminated Eala in the Round of 32 via straight sets.
Their rematch came six years later at the inaugural WTA 125 Philippine Women’s Open, where the Quezon City native returned the favor by sweeping Charaeva in front of her home crowd, also in the Round of 32.
Now, the two rising stars are set to meet for a third time—this time on grass—with more than just a quarterfinal berth at stake. The winner will also gain the upper hand in their head‑to‑head rivalry.
Charaeva’s Short History on the Grass Surface
Throughout her WTA career, Alina Charaeva has played only three matches on grass courts. Her first two appearances on the surface came in 2025, when the 23‑year‑old won her opening match in the Wimbledon qualifying tournament before bowing out in the second round.
This year, Charaeva opened her Lexus Birmingham Open campaign with an impressive 6–3, 6–1 victory over Greet Minnen in the Round of 32.
Charaeva will now be up against a very different version of Alex Eala in their third meeting. After enjoying a productive grass‑court campaign last year, the Filipina star enters the matchup with greater experience and confidence on the surface.
Alex Eala Next Match
Alex Eala vs. Alina Charaeva
Tournament: WTA 125 Lexus Birmingham Open
Date and Time: Wednesday, June 4 (Time to be determined)
Category: Singles (Main Draw, Round of 16)
