It's my first final and it's something big for me and my country," Eala's tears after her defeat in the Eastbourne final

Alexandra Eala fell short in the Eastbourne tournament final against Maya Joint despite having four match points in the third-set tiebreak.

At just 20 years old, the Filipino player was close to making history for her country by winning a first-ever WTA Tour title. Deeply affected by the loss, she broke down in tears during her post-match speech:

"I want to congratulate Maya on a great match and a great tournament. You played really well. If I had to lose to someone this week, it would be you. Congratulations. [...]

This is my first WTA Tour final. It's something big for me. It's also big for my country because it's historic. It's the first time someone from the Philippines has achieved something like this. That's why I'm so emotional. But this was only the first final.