- Filipina Rising Star Sets Up Title Clash with World No. 3 Jessica Pegula
WASHINGTON: Philippines’ rising tennis star Alexandra Eala produced the biggest upset of the Washington Open on Saturday, defeating former world No. 1 Naomi Osaka 6-4, 6-2 to book her place in the women’s singles final.
The 21-year-old left-hander delivered a composed and commanding performance against the four-time Grand Slam champion from Japan, advancing to the second WTA final of her career after finishing runner-up at Eastbourne last year.
“I’m super proud of my performance,” Eala said after the match. “I played really well, maintained a strong mentality, and stayed focused until the very end.”
Career-Best Ranking Beckons for Eala
The victory continues Eala’s remarkable breakthrough season and is expected to lift her to a career-high World No. 24 in the WTA rankings.
Eala has enjoyed an outstanding run in Washington, eliminating second seed Elina Svitolina for her sixth victory over a top-10 player this year after also knocking out defending champion Leylah Fernandez.
The semi-final marked the first career meeting between Eala and Osaka, a player the Filipina admired while growing up.
“She definitely has aura and tremendous power,” Eala said. “I remember watching her Australian Open and US Open finals. Sharing the court with her was a great experience, and I’m really happy I was able to play at this level.”
Osaka’s Title Wait Continues
Osaka, currently ranked No. 13, was denied her eighth career WTA singles title and remains in search of her first championship since winning the 2021 Australian Open.
Eala dominated key moments throughout the contest, winning 79 percent of her second-serve points. After claiming the opening set in 38 minutes, she quickly seized control of the second by breaking Osaka’s serve twice before sealing victory in just 76 minutes.
Pegula Awaits in Championship Match
Top seed and World No. 3 Jessica Pegula advanced to the final by defeating Russia’s Diana Shnaider 7-5, 6-4 in the second semi-final.
Seeking her 12th career WTA title and third of the season, Pegula rallied from a 5-2 deficit in the opening set to secure her fourth final appearance of the year.
“I found a little rhythm on the return, served a little smarter, and managed to take control of the momentum,” Pegula said.
The American also praised her upcoming opponent.
“It’s going to be a battle. Alex is someone I’m a big fan of. She’s the future of the tour, and she’s already proving it.”
Eala Confident Ahead of Rematch
Pegula won the only previous meeting between the two players in the 2025 Miami Open semi-finals, but Eala believes she has evolved significantly since then.
“I’m more well-rounded now. Physically I’m stronger, several parts of my game have improved, and my serve has developed quite a bit,” Eala said.
Men’s Semi-Finals Set
In the men’s draw, World No. 10 Taylor Fritz will face fellow American Brandon Nakashima in an all-American semi-final, while Chile’s Alejandro Tabilo takes on 19-year-old Spanish prospect Rafael Jodar for a place in the championship match.
BY: The Times Union
