Alex Eala will next face Caty McNally in the Round of 32 at the National Bank Open.
Throughout the Mubadala DC Open, Eala met opponents she had either previously defeated or lost to, giving her the chance to avenge past setbacks and build on earlier victories en route to her first‑ever WTA 500 title. Even in her opening match at the National Bank Open in Toronto, she faced Alycia Parks, who had beaten her at the Australian Open earlier this year.
After winning her Round of 64 match against Parks, the world No. 20 now turns her attention to world No. 70 Caty McNally.
Caty McNally’s Rise Could Be Unfolding
Much like her Rafa Nadal Academy counterpart, McNally has competed extensively in both singles and doubles this season. She captured the doubles title at the WTA 500 Charleston Open alongside partner Desirae Krawczyk. In singles, however, the 24‑year‑old American has reached the quarterfinals only three times this year—at the Memphis Open, Libéma Open, and Eastbourne Open.
Her upset victory over seventh seed Linda Nosková at this year’s National Bank Open already stands out as one of the biggest highlights of her 2026 campaign. Before defeating Nosková, she also overcame Tatjana Maria in her opening‑round match. Those wins could very well propel McNally into a surprising deep run in Toronto.
Alex Eala Has Momentum
On the other side of the net, the newly minted WTA 500 champion enters the match riding a six‑match winning streak, similar to the dominant run she enjoyed during the grass‑court season.
Despite facing McNally for the first time, Eala’s confidence should at an all‑time high. The 21‑year‑old has defeated several higher‑ranked opponents and developed the championship poise and composure that have become hallmarks of her game. Her recent form has established her as one of the tournament’s standout contenders—and among the favorites to capture the National Bank Open title.
Alex Eala Next Matches
WTA 1000 National Bank Open
Main Draw — Round of 32 — Doubles
Alex Eala and Venus Williams vs. Miyu Kato and Liudmila Samsonova
August 7, Friday — 8:10 a.m. (Estimated time)
Main Draw — Round of 32 — Singles
Alex Eala vs. Caty McNally
August 8, Saturday — (Time to be determined)
