Eala sails into Dubai Championship round of 16 after beating world No. 8 Jasmine Paolini

Alex Eala delivered one of the biggest wins of her career, toppling world No. 8 Jasmine Paolini of Italy, 6–1, 7–6 (5), to move into the round of 16 of the 2026 Dubai Tennis Championships, Feb. 18.



The victory marked a breakthrough moment for Eala, who showcased composure, aggressive returning and fearless shot-making against one of the tour’s top-ranked players and former title-holders.

The Filipina netter dictated play in the first set, breaking Paolini twice while striking clean winners off both wings, to wrap up a dominant 6–1 opener.

Paolini regrouped in the second set, tightening her service games and matching Eala shot for shot in longer rallies to keep the contest within reach.

The Italian managed to draw level midway through the frame and eventually edged ahead 6–5 after surviving a tense service game, marking her first lead of the match.

Unfazed, Eala held serve under pressure to force a tiebreak, displaying poise that belied her age.

In the breaker, momentum swung between the two, but Eala answered a brief 3–2 deficit with consecutive points to regain control and move to match point at 6–5.

Eala closed out the contest with a steady down-the-line baseline hit, completing the straight-sets upset and securing her place in the round of 16 of the WTA 1000 event.

With the win, Eala advanced to the round of 16, further solidifying her growing presence on the international stage and adding another milestone to Philippine tennis’ rise in elite competition.