Sensational Eala basks in fans cheers in second-round win

Alexandra Eala, a 21-year-old player from the Philippines, stunned Ukrainian opponent Oleksandra Oliynykova 6-1, 6-4 in the second round of the US Open on Thursday. Eala, who previously reached the fourth round at Wimbledon, her deepest Grand Slam run this summer, said her experience contributed to her strong performance. The fans in the Louis Armstrong Stadium, many bearing Philippine flags, were behind her from the start, cheering her on.

Eala, who was ranked 18th this summer, said she felt more mature and well-rounded after reaching the fourth round at Wimbledon. She now looks forward to facing either Iva Jovic of the United States or Francesca Jones of Britain in the third round.