Eala makes history, upsets Swiatek in Miami Open quarterfinals

Filipina tennis sensation Alex Eala continued her dream run at the Miami Open, pulling off a stunning 6-2, 7-5 victory over World No. 2 and five-time Grand Slam champion Iga Swiatek on Wednesday, March 26 (Thursday, March 27, Manila time).

The 19-year-old wildcard entry displayed poise and resilience, adding Swiatek to her growing list of high-profile upsets, which already includes 2017 French Open winner Jelena Ostapenko and reigning Australian champion Madison Keys.

Swiatek, competing under heightened security following a verbal altercation with a spectator over the weekend, struggled to hold serve in the first set, while Eala played with confidence, firing winners from all areas of the court.

Eala took control of the match, setting the tempo with her aggressive style and striking winners from all directions. Swiatek fought back in the second set, gaining a 4-2 advantage, but the young Filipina answered with unwavering determination.

Breaking serve twice down the stretch, Eala closed out the match with her eighth break, completing a stunning upset over one of her childhood idols.

“I feel so blessed to compete against such an incredible player on this stage,” Eala added.  

Eala is now set to face World No. 4 Jessica Pegula of the United States in the semifinals after Pegula secured a hard-fought 6-4, 6-7 (7), 6-2 quarterfinal win over former Grand Slam champion Emma Raducanu.