Teen Eala Stuns Top Seed Keys at Miami Open

MIAMI, Fla. — Alexandra Eala, a 19-year-old wildcard from the Philippines, made headlines on March 24, 2025, by defeating world No. 5 Madison Keys 6-4, 6-2 in the third round of the Miami Open. This unexpected victory marks a historic achievement as Eala became the first player from the Philippines to win against a WTA Top 10 opponent since the rankings began in 1975.

Eala showcased remarkable skill and determination during the match, breaking Keys’ serve six times. After the match, she expressed her overwhelming joy, saying, “I can’t wait to call my mom and dad. Nakuha natin, dad, mom,” which reflects her excitement in sharing this monumental win with her supportive family.

Despite her triumph, Eala remained humble, acknowledging the significance of her victory. “It’s a big thing to take in, and I’m so super proud of what I was able to accomplish, but it definitely fuels me more,” she explained. Looking ahead to her next match against No. 10 seed Paula Badosa, scheduled for March 25, she recognized the need to focus. “Definitely think it will be a tough match; Paula has been at the forefront of the world stage for a long time, so she has a lot of experience,” Eala noted.

Raised in the Philippines, Eala began playing tennis at age four, influenced by her grandfather and brother. At 13, she relocated to the Rafa Nadal Academy in Mallorca for elite training. Reflecting on her journey, Eala shared, “It was definitely a big decision for me, for us… I jumped at the opportunity because I knew that I had to get out of the country eventually to improve.”

Eala’s success at the Miami Open has already exceeded the total wins of all other Filipino players combined in the tournament’s Open Era, as she has now secured three victories. Her recent performances have not only spotlighted her talent but also serve as an inspiration for young Filipino athletes. Eala expressed her desire to be a role model, saying, “I want them to see my attitude and determination on the court from their homes, along with the results I’m achieving.”

In addition to Eala’s stunning victory, the tennis world observed another significant event as Novak Djokovic broke Rafael Nadal‘s record for the most match wins at Masters 1000 events with his 411th victory. Djokovic defeated Argentina’s Camilo Ugo Carabelli 6-1, 7-6(1) and spoke humbly about the achievement, stating, “I’m honored to have another milestone, another record broken.”

As Eala prepares for her next challenge, excitement builds among tennis fans. Whether she can continue her remarkable streak against Badosa remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: Eala’s ambition and determination are paving the way for her burgeoning career.