Philippines’ Alexandra Eala returns the ball to Colombia’s Emiliana Arango, during their first round match of the French Tennis Open, at the Roland-Garros stadium, in Paris, Sunday May 25, 2025. (AP Photo/Christophe Ena)
MANILA, Philippines–Alex Eala barged into the main draw of the Nottingham Open on Monday.
Eala advanced into the next round of the WTA 250 event after overcoming Anca Todoni of Romania, 6-3, 6(4)-7, 6-3, in her final qualifying match.
READ: Alex Eala inches closer to Nottingham Open main draw
The 20-year-old Filipino seemed on her way to a sweep but couldn’t hang on as Todoni found her rhythm in the tiebreak.
Eala, though, regained her footing in the third set where she cruised to a 5-2 start and never looked back.
The Rafa Nadal Academy alum kicks off her main draw campaign against Poland’s Magda Linette, who is seeded sixth in the tournament.
READ: Alex Eala sees new era for PH sports after French Open doubles win
The 33-year-old Linette was once ranked 19th in the world back in March 2023.
Eala, who is currently at No. 77 in the WTA, on Saturday beat France’s Varvara Gracheva, 6-3, 3-6, 6-3.
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