Miami Open: Eala Makes History, Keys Crashes Out
Quarterfinals Bound: Eala to Face Badosa
Rafael Nadal’s academy-trained Alexandra Eala is one step closer to making history as she gears up to face Paula Badosa in the quarterfinals of the Miami Open. The 19-year-old Filipino wildcard player produced a stunning 6-4, 6-2 win over fifth-seeded American Madison Keys, becoming the first woman from the Philippines to beat a top-10 opponent since the ranking system was introduced in 1975.
Eala, who has been based at Nadal’s academy in Mallorca since she was 13, is now looking to make the next step in Filipino tennis. "Growing up it was tough," she said. "You didn’t have anyone from where you’re from to pave the way. Of course, you had many people to look up to around the world, but I think – I hope this takes Filipino tennis to the next step."
Swiatek Secures Record 25th Straight WTA 1000 Win
In other women’s action, second-seeded Iga Swiatek overcame a determined Elise Mertens to secure a 7-6 (7/2), 6-1 victory and take her place in the last 16 at a WTA 1000 tournament for a record 25th straight event. The Pole has not lost before the last 16 at this level since Cincinnati 2021.
Men’s Draw: Djokovic Breaks Record, Goffin Falls to Nakashima
In the men’s draw, Novak Djokovic broke the record for the most ATP Masters 1000 match wins with his 6-1 7-6 (7/1) win over Argentine Camilo Ugo Carabelli. The Serb’s 411th win at this level takes him past the previous record set by Nadal. Meanwhile, Belgian veteran David Goffin fell to American Brandon Nakashima, who won 6-3 6-7 (5/7) 6-3.
Other Notable Results
- Stefanos Tsitsipas, who won his first title in over a year last month at Dubai, fell to 24th-seeded American Sebastian Korda 7-6 (7/4), 6-3.
- Grigor Dimitrov battled to a 6-7 (3/7), 6-4, 7-5 win over Karen Khachanov, making him the fourth active player to tally 100 Masters 1000 hard-court wins.
Conclusion
The Miami Open has seen its fair share of upsets and thrilling matches, with Eala’s historic win being one of the most notable. As she takes on Badosa in the quarterfinals, the world will be watching to see if she can make it to the next stage of the tournament. In the men’s draw, Djokovic’s record-breaking win is a testament to his dominance, while Goffin’s fall to Nakashima is a reminder that the young American is one to watch.
FAQs
Q: Who is Alexandra Eala?
A: A 19-year-old Filipino wildcard player who has been training at Rafael Nadal’s academy in Mallorca since she was 13.
Q: What is Eala’s next match?
A: Eala will face Paula Badosa in the quarterfinals of the Miami Open.
Q: How many WTA 1000 wins has Iga Swiatek recorded?
A: Swiatek has recorded a record 25th straight WTA 1000 win.