Philippines' Eala beats Pegula to win first WTA title in Washington

Alexandra Eala claimed her first WTA title, defeating top seed Jessica Pegula 4-6, 6-4, 6-0 in the Washington Open final on Monday (August 3). The rain-interrupted match saw Eala trailing by a set but regain momentum to win the second set and secure victory. Eala, the first player from the Philippines to win a WTA Tour-level singles title, expressed elation on court, stating that she was already celebrating her achievement.

Pegula, aiming for her third Washington title, couldn't stop Eala's momentum. Eala's winning streak against top-10 opponents extended to five matches following her victories over Elena Rybakina, Elina Svitolina, twice, and Iga Swiatek. Taylor Fritz also won his first title of the year in the men's final, defeating 19-year-old Rafa Jodar 7-6(2), 6-4. The victory puts Fritz in a strong position heading into the Canadian Open.