Eala recovers to move into Tokyo quarter-finals
TOKYO: Philippine sensation Alexandra Eala came from behind to beat Talia Gibson 4-6, 6-2, 6-0 in Tokyo on Wednesday and said “it took a lot to turn that match around.”
Talented Philippine player Alexandra Eala staged an impressive comeback to advance to the Tokyo quarter-finals, defeating Australia's Talia Gibson 4-6, 6-2, 6-0 on Wednesday. The world number 19, who recently struggled to progress beyond the early rounds, overcame the odds to make it to the next round. Gibson, ranked 38, took the first set at the Pan Pacific Open, putting Eala in a tough position.
However, Eala fought back in the second set, ultimately seizing control in the decisive third set. The 21-year-old credited her gradual improvement and small details that added up as key factors in her victory. Eala will now face Russian third seed Diana Shnaider in the quarter-finals. This marks Eala's first title on the women's WTA Tour, a significant achievement for the Philippines, as she became the first player from the country to win a title on the women's WTA Tour in August.
Eala had passionate support throughout the tournament, which she attributed to the great atmosphere created by the crowd.
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