Clutch in Auckland: Alex Eala Stuns Olympic Medalist, Marches On at ASB Classic

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by Misha Cruz

Filipina tennis star Alex Eala.
Filipina tennis star Alex Eala. Photo: POC.

Main-character energy activated.

Alex Eala opened her 2026 campaign with a statement win, rallying past Olympic silver medalist Donna Vekić in a gritty three-set thriller, 4-6, 6-4, 6-4, to advance at the ASB Classic in Auckland, New Zealand.

Playing under the lights at center court, Eala dug deep for two hours and 40 minutes, feeding off a crowd that sounded more like Manila than Auckland. It was a comeback fueled by belief, patience, and clutch shot-making — the kind that defines a player ready for bigger stages.

The match didn’t start smoothly. After racing to a 3-0 lead in the opening set, Eala saw Vekić’s experience take over as the Croatian flipped the script to steal the first frame. But the Filipina stayed locked in, tightening her returns and forcing longer rallies that slowly swung momentum her way.

Alex Eala
Alex Eala. Photo: Philippine Star.

Set two was a grind. With the score knotted at 3-all, Eala found another gear, winning key points on return to open up a late advantage. Vekić fought to extend the set, but Eala closed it out with authority to force a decider.

The third set was pure tension. Both players traded holds until 3-all, when Eala held serve under pressure and then broke through in the very next game. Vekić saved one match threat, but the World No. 53 Filipina refused to let go, sealing the win when her opponent’s final return found the net.

Afterward, Eala credited the support around her, saying home isn’t a place — it’s the people. And Auckland felt like home.

Up next is another Croatian, world No. 82 Petra Marčinko, as Eala continues her ASB Classic run. She’s also already on a roll in doubles, teaming up with Iva Jovic to knock out Elina Svitolina and Venus Williams.

Big heart. Big wins. And it’s only January.