Alex Eala Storms into ASB Classic Semis w/ Commanding Win Over Magda Linette
ALEX EALA – Filipina tennis player Alex Eala delivered a performance to remember as she powered her way into the ASB Classic semifinals, proving she is ready to challenge the best on the WTA Tour.
Alex Eala delivered one of her most convincing performances on the WTA Tour after dismantling Polish veteran Magda Linette, 6-3, 6-2, to book a spot in the semifinals of the ASB Classic singles yesterday at the ASB Tennis Center in Auckland, New Zealand.
The Filipina standout finally cracked the code against Linette after losing their first two meetings, showcasing composure and precision in a match that underlined her rapid rise. Eala trailed only once early in the opening set before taking control and never allowing the fifth-seeded Pole to find her rhythm again.
Needing just 97 minutes, the No. 4 seed completed the quarterfinal victory and avenged previous losses to Linette at the 2025 Abu Dhabi Open, 7-6, 6-1, and the 2025 Nottingham Open, 6-4, 6-3. The win marked Eala’s third career appearance in a WTA Final Four, another milestone for the 20-year-old who continues to impress on the big stage.
Currently ranked WTA No. 53, Eala is projected to crack the Top 50 for the first time in her career following her strong run in Auckland. She now faces WTA No. 57 and No. 7 seed Wang Xinyu of China for a place in the final. The winner will advance to face either top seed Elina Svitolina of Ukraine, ranked No. 13, or American Iva Jovic, the No. 3 seed and Eala’s doubles partner.
“It feels good. Thank you everybody for being here,” said the 20-year-old Eala after the match.
“Today was difficult with Magda obviously being such an experienced player. I had difficulties playing against her before. I’m happy that I’m seeing my level increase and improve.”
Wang advanced after Francesca Jones of Great Britain retired due to injury while trailing 6-4, 4-3. On the other side of the draw, Svitolina survived a marathon against Sonay Kartal, 6-4, 6-7, 7-6 (7-5), while Jovic eliminated Sofia Costoulas, 6-2, 7-6 (8-6).
Earlier in the day, Eala also saw her doubles campaign end as she and Jovic bowed to Chinese veterans Xu Yifan and Yang Zhaoxuan, 7-5, 6-3, in the semifinals. Despite the setback, Eala’s singles surge remains the headline, as she continues to prove she belongs among the tour’s elite.
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