Tennis: Alex Eala defeats Bulgaria’s Tomova, setting up Swiatek rematch

(2nd Update) Filipina tennis player Alex Eala is off to a fast start at the 2025 Madrid Open, defeating Bulgaria’s Viktoriya Tomova 6-3, 6-2 in the first round on Tuesday.

As a consequence, Eala will face world No. 2 Iga Swiatek in the round of 64, following the defending champion’s bye in the first round.

Eala beat Swiatek in the Miami Open quarterfinals in late March.

The Filipina, presently ranked 72nd by the WTA, trailed 1-2 in the first set before breaking Tomova to square the score. She then won four consecutive points to take control of the frame, winning 6-3.

Riding that momentum, Eala raced to a 4-1 lead in the second set before Tomova ultimately halted the bleeding. However, the Filipina girl kept her nerve and defeated world No. 64 Tomova in the next game to claim triumph.

Eala and Tomova had played centre court in Madrid, which the Filipina girl described as “a big honour.”

RARING TO FACE SWIATEK

Eala couldn’t contain her joy after winning and having the opportunity to play on one of tennis’ most prestigious platforms.

“Great fun! “It was huge, and the atmosphere was incredible,” Eala remarked. “I’m so happy with the way I performed and I kept my cool throughout the whole match.”

Eala scored some terrific points, including a stunning volley that had the fans on its feet. She also maintained her composure in high-pressure situations.

“I believe you simply have to go with no doubts and trust your shots. It occurs in every match. Every encounter has tough games and challenging moments,” the 19-year-old stated. “So, trust that I know how to deal with it.”

When questioned about the clay court, she stated that “conditions change a lot depending on the weather more than the court, but it’s one of the best clay courts you can ever play on.”

Eala was also observed conversing with Rafa Nadal Academy coach Joan Bosch in Spanish.

“If I could talk to him in Tagalog, I would,” she said me. “But I don’t speak Tagalog. “Spanish is the next best thing!”

She noted that her contacts with Bosch are more about keeping her mentally sharp than making any tactical changes: “Most of the time, it’s just cheering me on, keeping me focused.”

Eala feels her approach would remain consistent in her forthcoming encounter with Swiatek.

“[I’m going in] with the same mentality as every match,” Eala told the crowd. “She’s a big player, so I have to be ready for what she’s gonna bring.”

“Just because I beat her last time, it’s not like, oh, I’m gonna beat her this time,” she told me. “The work’s not done yet, and the pressure is not over yet.”