Alex Eala’s Cincinnati Open run comes to an end

Alex Eala's Cincinnati Open run concluded with a three-set loss to world No. 10 Amanda Anisimova in the round of 32. The Filipino player opened strongly, winning the first set 6-4, but Anisimova battled back to secure the second set 6-4 before dominating the decisive set 6-2. Eala, the 17th seed, fought hard in the final set, but could not maintain her momentum against the ninth-seeded American.

The grueling match extended beyond midnight, lasting two hours and 28 minutes. Eala, who had a solid start in the opening set, which lasted 67 minutes, slipped to 3-3 in the second set. However, Anisimova converted her first break point in the seventh game and went on to win three of the subsequent four games to level the contest.

Despite Eala's impressive start in the deciding set, where she broke Anisimova in the opening game and moved 2-0 ahead, the match took an unexpected turn. Anisimova, a former world No. 3 and a Wimbledon and US Open finalist in 2025, regained control, breaking Eala three times before completing the victory with a six-game sweep.

Following the match, Anisimova expressed her appreciation for the support she received during the grueling battle. She acknowledged Alex's exceptional skill and determination, stating that the match was more challenging than she had initially anticipated, as it kept her past her bedtime.

Despite the defeat, Eala's Cincinnati campaign served as valuable preparation for the upcoming US Open, which commences on August 30 at Flushing Meadows in New York.