Alex Eala Advances in Nottingham Open Qualifiers Despite Recent Loss

MANILA, Philippines – Alex Eala continues to push through challenges in her tennis career. Just one day after being eliminated in the quarterfinals of the Ilkley Open, the 20-year-old Filipina athlete fought back to win her opening match in the qualifiers of the Nottingham Open on Saturday, June 14.

Eala defeated French player Varvara Gracheva in a hard-fought match at the Nottingham Tennis Centre, clinching victory with a final score of 6-3, 3-6, 6-3. The match showcased Eala’s resilience after her previous day’s defeat to Canada’s Rebecca Marino.

The world No. 77 started strong, breaking Gracheva early in the first set. After a tense fifth game that saw both players exchanging points, Eala gained momentum to take the first set. However, Gracheva rallied to win the second set and push Eala into a decisive third set.

Entering the final set, Eala renewed her determination and broke Gracheva’s serve right away. Despite a brief fightback from Gracheva to tie the set at 2-2, Eala maintained her focus and pulled ahead, ultimately finishing the match with a strong lead.

Eala’s next challenge comes against Anca Todoni of Romania in the last round of qualifiers. Todoni, also 20 years old, has impressive credentials, having made the main draws at the Australian Open and French Open. She defeated Jodie Burrage in her first qualifying match.

With one win needed to secure a place in the main draw, Eala faces a tough task ahead, but her recent performances show she is more than capable of rising to the occasion.