Alexandra Eala has become the first champion from the Philippines on the WTA Tour Driven by Mercedes-Benz, securing her title at the Mubadala DC Open. The 20-year-old clinched the victory against top seed Jessica Pegula with a comeback, winning 4-6, 6-4, 6-0 in a rain-delayed final.
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The match had been suspended on Sunday night due to heavy rainfall, with Pegula leading 6-4, 1-2. However, after resuming play, Eala took control and won the final nine games of the match, dominating the third set by allowing her opponent just eight points.
Describing the experience as "a crazy 24 hours," Eala reflected on the challenges of the rain delays, stating, "I think I warmed up a thousand times. It was difficult... I think this is just kind of another one of those, although it was a lot higher stakes."
Eala's victory comes after a near miss in her previous finals appearance, where she lost to Maya Joint at the Lexus Eastbourne Open despite holding four championship points. In Washington, she faced significant challenges, defeating three seeded players: No. 2 seed Elina Svitolina, No. 3 seed Naomi Osaka, and defending champion Leylah Fernandez, as well as 2024 Olympic champion Zheng Qinwen.
With her recent wins, Eala is currently tied with Elena Rybakina and Elina Svitolina for seven Top 10 victories in the season and is expected to enter the Top 20 of the PIF WTA Rankings for the first time.
"At the beginning of the week, there is no way I would have thought that I would be holding this trophy," Eala said, expressing pride in overcoming a tough draw and numerous obstacles throughout the tournament. She noted that each match helped her improve and gain confidence, highlighting the importance of her training efforts.