Eala after her win against Swiatek: "I knew I had the level to compete with her"

Adrien Guyot

le 27/03/2025 à 12h57

2 min to read

Eala Miami Swiatek

This Wednesday morning in Miami, Alexandra Eala made a statement with a prestigious victory in the quarterfinals of the Florida tournament against Iga Swiatek (6-2, 7-5). Unshaken, the Filipino player pulled off a huge upset and secured her very first semifinal spot on the main tour at this WTA 1000 event.

Before facing Jessica Pegula for a place in the final, Eala shared her mindset after defeating the Polish world No. 2, who has already won five Grand Slam titles.

"There are so many emotions, but the strongest one is definitely happiness. I’m really, really happy with this win. I knew I had the level to compete with her.

She’s won so, so many titles, and she’s a player I watched a lot when I was younger. It was a pleasure to share the court with her and to be able to match her pace—I’m very proud.

I was also torn about whether to cry or not, but I was so locked into the match that I hadn’t fully processed what had happened. I think I wanted to savor the moment.

It’s true that I don’t have much experience on the WTA tour, but I know the behavior and attitude I need to have as a professional when I step onto the court.

The only thing I can give back to my country is to try and help inspire positive change, so more people pick up a racket, watch more tennis—especially women’s tennis. I think in the Philippines, this sport has huge potential, even if it’s not as popular as others.

I feel like there are so many hidden talents, and if we can bring them out, then yes, tennis in the Philippines could become something very big," assured the 19-year-old Eala in an interview with Super Tennis.