Alex Eala sees Asian Games gold-medal dream ended by Wang Xiyu in semi-finals

Alex Eala will have to settle for her second consecutive Asian Games bronze medal after losing to Wang Xiyu in the women's singles semi-finals on Thursday. The Filipina world No 18 failed to capitalize on her win in the opening set, ultimately being defeated 3-6, 6-3, 6-2 by her Chinese opponent at Higashiyama Park Tennis Centre.

Eala's gold medal would have secured her a spot in the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles. Wang Xiyu will advance to the final, where she will take on countrywoman and veteran Shuai Zhang. Eala had previously been eliminated from the women's doubles alongside Shaira Rivera, losing 7-5, 6-2 to Chinese pair Jiang Xinyu and Yang Zhaoxuan.

Despite missing the China Open to participate in the Asian Games, Eala expressed her gratitude and no regrets, acknowledging that it was an experience she will cherish. She conceded that Wang was more consistent during the match and plans to discuss her performance with her team. Eala's historic 2026 included the first Filipino victory in a WTA Tour-level singles title at the Washington Open.

Her No 18 ranking made her the highest-ranked woman from Southeast Asia in tennis history. At this year's Wimbledon, Eala achieved her best Grand Slam run, advancing to the fourth round and defeating six-time Grand Slam champion Iga Swiatek at Centre Court.