Alex Eala vs Cristina Bucsa: Pinay Tennis Star Eyes Another Historic US Open Win

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by Misha Cruz

Filipina tennis star Alex Eala completes a gritty comeback against Denmark's Clara Tauson in the first round of the US Open 2025.
Filipina tennis star Alex Eala completes a gritty comeback against Denmark's Clara Tauson in the first round of the US Open 2025. Photo: Getty Images.

Filipina tennis pride Alex Eala is once again set to wave the flag high at the US Open, marching into the second round with confidence, momentum, and a growing crowd of supporters who’ve practically made New York feel like Manila.

Fresh off her heart-stopping 6-3, 2-6, 7-6 (13-11) win over Denmark’s Clara Tauson, Eala showed the kind of fighting spirit that defines champions. Down 1-5 in the deciding set, the 20-year-old dug deep, refused to back down, and rallied with a grit that electrified the crowd. 

“I don’t have a home tournament, so to feel this support here… it honestly feels like home,” Eala shared after the match.

Up next is Spanish ace Cristina Bucsa, a seasoned veteran who comes into this showdown carrying both momentum and some health concerns. Bucsa revealed she’s been dealing with stomach issues even before the tournament, admitting she felt unwell during warm-ups against American Claire Liu. But despite that, she shocked everyone with a dominant 6-2, 6-1 win. “I didn’t expect it to be this way,” Bucsa admitted to Spanish media. “It was stressful, but I won that match mentally.”

That sets the stage for a fascinating clash: Eala, the rising star known for her fearless shot-making and mental toughness, versus Bucsa, the crafty Spaniard whose experience and resilience remain dangerous even at less than 100%.

Alex Eala
Alex Eala. Photo: Getty Images.

It won’t be their first encounter—Eala actually beat Bucsa back in their junior days. But this time, the stakes couldn’t be higher: a ticket to the third round of the US Open and another chance for the young Filipina to etch her name in the history books.

The energy around Eala is undeniable. From Filipino fans waving flags in the stands to online supporters flooding timelines with encouragement, she carries not just her own dreams, but the pride of an entire nation every time she steps on court.

As Eala put it best after her opening win: “I just tried to see the positives, find solutions, and with all these people backing me up, it’s hard not to stay in the moment.”

💪🇵🇭 Buhay na buhay ang laban! Alex Eala’s journey continues—and she’s ready to keep making history.