Alexandra Eala has officially etched her name in the history books. On Sunday at the US Open, the 20-year-old Filipina tennis sensation delivered a performance that will be remembered not only for its drama but also for its significance — becoming the first Filipina player to win a Grand Slam singles main draw match in the Open Era.
Playing under the bright lights of New York and in front of a passionate crowd at Flushing Meadows, Eala stunned the world No. 14, Clara Tauson, in a gripping three-set battle. The final score — 6-3, 2-6, 7-6 (13-11) reflected the rollercoaster nature of the match, one that saw Eala dig deep and fight back from 5-1 down in the deciding set.
A Crowd Powered by Filipino Pride
The atmosphere was electric inside the Grandstand. Residents of “Little Manila,” a Queens neighborhood home to a large Filipino community, turned out in full force to back their rising star. Their cheers and unwavering support created a home-like environment for Eala, who later described the experience as “so special.”
“To be Filipino is something I take so much pride in,” Eala shared after her historic victory. “I’m always in the mood for creating more history – this match is one for the books for me.”
Her win sparked celebrations both in the stands and across Filipino communities worldwide. For many, this moment symbolized more than just a tennis victory it was a breakthrough, a statement that Filipino athletes can compete and thrive at the highest levels of global sport.
The Long Road to a First Grand Slam Win
Eala’s journey to this milestone has been filled with promise, challenges, and breakthrough moments. Earlier in the season, she captured global attention by storming into the semi-finals of the Miami Open, where she defeated three Grand Slam champions in succession former French Open winner Jelena Ostapenko, reigning Australian Open champion Madison Keys, and world No. 1 Iga Swiatek. That extraordinary run made her the first Filipina woman to crack the WTA top 100.
However, until Sunday, Grand Slam main draws had proven elusive. At both the French Open and Wimbledon earlier this year, Eala came heartbreakingly close but fell in three-set matches. The US Open, however, proved to be her breakthrough stage a stage where she not only showcased her skill but her resilience and determination.
Tauson’s Frustration, Eala’s Composure
Clara Tauson, known for her heavy hitting and aggressive style, came into the match as the clear favorite. But despite controlling stretches of the encounter, the Dane grew increasingly frustrated, particularly in the tense third set. At 5-4, with Eala setting up crucial break points, Tauson argued with umpire Kader Nouni over a disputed call, drawing boos from the crowd.
Eala, on the other hand, stayed calm under pressure. “It was so difficult,” she admitted. “She [Tauson] is a huge player — definitely not an easy draw for a first round but I’m so happy that I could dig deep. I was thinking I had to push the limit, physically and mentally.”
That mental fortitude carried her over the finish line in a nail-biting tiebreak, where every point felt like it could swing the match.
What’s Next for Eala?
With this victory, Eala advances to the second round of the US Open, where she will face either Cristina Bucsa of Spain (world No. 95) or American Claire Liu. While that matchup is still to be decided, one thing is certain: Eala has already made history, and she is hungry for more.
Her journey reflects the rise of a new generation of tennis players breaking barriers and inspiring millions back home. From her 2022 US Open junior singles triumph the first for a Filipino to Sunday’s main draw breakthrough, Alexandra Eala is quickly becoming the face of Filipino tennis and a source of pride for her nation.
As she put it best herself: “I’m always in the mood for more history.” And after Sunday’s unforgettable win, it’s clear the world is now watching closely.