Alex Eala Wins Washington Open, Becoming First Filipino to Claim WTA Singles Title

Alexandra Eala of the Philippines kisses the championship trophy after defeating America’s Jessica Pegula in the women’s singles final at the Washington Open in Washington, D.C., on August 3, 2026 (local time).

Alexandra Eala (ranked 20th) has become the first Filipino tennis player to win a Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) Tour singles title.

On August 3 (local time), Eala defeated world No. 3 Jessica Pegula of the United States 2-1 (4-6, 6-4, 6-0) in the women’s singles final of the Washington Open held in Washington, D.C.

Turning professional in 2020, the 21-year-old Eala wrote a new chapter in tennis history by becoming the first Filipino player, male or female, to claim a tour-level singles championship, taking home a prize of $252,000 (approximately 350 million won).

The final was stretched across two days due to heavy rain. When play was suspended the previous day, Eala had dropped the first set while leading 2-1 in the second set.

Upon the resumption of the match, Eala displayed remarkable focus.

Trailing 3-4 in the second set, she reeled off nine consecutive games to secure a comeback victory.

She dominated the third set with a bagel score (6-0).

Having defeated four top-seeded players, including Pegula, to capture the championship trophy, Eala buried her face in her hands and collapsed to the court in tears when victory was confirmed. She later stood up to hug Pegula before finally letting out a joyous scream.

“I was so nervous, my mind went blank. Everything came rushing in all at once,” Eala said. “When this week started, I never expected that I would be the one holding this trophy.”

Throughout the match, the stands were filled with Philippine flags.

The cheers for Eala were even louder than those for the home favorite, Pegula.

Pegula acknowledged the atmosphere, saying, “It was tough for me, but I have to admit it was a really fun atmosphere. It was amazing.”

Following Eala’s victory, Manny Pacquiao, the Philippines’ greatest sports star, sent a congratulatory message.

Pacquiao is a boxing legend who won world titles in eight different weight divisions during his active career.

He wrote on social media, “Eala’s comeback showed the heart of a Filipino. Eala is our new champion.”

In the men’s singles final, Taylor Fritz (ranked 8th) of the United States defeated Rafael Jodar (ranked 15th) of Spain 2-0 (7-6[7-2], 6-4) to claim his 11th career tour title.

Source: SBS News