Alex Eala delivered another statement victory on grass, stunning World No. 2 Elena Rybakina, 7-5, 6-4, just a day after dismantling reigning Queen’s Club champion Vekic.
Facing one of the tour’s most accomplished players—a former Wimbledon champion and reigning Australian Open champion—Eala showed poise and resilience beyond her years. The Filipina appeared headed for defeat in the opening set after falling behind 4-1, but she refused to back down. Eala clawed her way back to level the score at 4-4, turning the momentum completely in her favor. She then capitalized on a crucial break of serve and closed out the set 7-5.
The second set followed a similar script, with Eala taking control early. She surged to a 3-1 advantage and consistently pressured Rybakina from the baseline. Although the Kazakh star attempted to mount a comeback, Eala remained composed in the key moments, producing a series of aggressive and well-timed winners to seal the set 6-4 and complete one of the biggest victories of her career.
The win continues Eala’s rapid rise up the rankings. She now climbs to No. 31 in the WTA Live Rankings and is projected to be seeded at Wimbledon for the first time in her career.
With confidence soaring and grass proving to be one of her most effective surfaces, Eala heads to the All England Club as a dangerous contender capable of producing further upsets against the world’s elite. Her recent performances have sent a clear message: the 21-year-old Filipina is ready to challenge the very best on one of tennis’ biggest stages.