Alex Eala rallies from first-set loss to capture maiden WTA crown in Guadalajara

Alex Eala turned a rocky start into a historic finish.

The 20-year-old Filipina fought back from a one-set deficit to defeat Hungary’s Panna Udvardy, 1-6, 7-5, 6-3, and clinch her first Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) title at the Guadalajara 125 Open, September 7.

The victory made Eala the first Filipino to win a WTA title, capping a four-year journey since turning professional.

That grit in the second set proved to be the turning point, giving Eala the belief and rhythm she carried into the decider.

Eala, ranked world No. 75 and seeded second in the tournament, turned the second set into a tense back-and-forth, with Eala trading rallies and dropping several key points but ultimately steadying herself to edge Udvardy, 7-5, and swing the momentum her way after absorbing a lopsided 1-6 loss in the opener.

She carried the momentum into the third, racing to a 4-2 lead before briefly stumbling on a forehand call. But with poise, she regrouped to take the last two games and seal the championship.

Despite being out-aced 5-0, Eala kept her composure by making 70 percent of her first serves, compared to Udvardy’s 56 percent. 

Udvardy had a slight edge on points won from first serves, 63 percent to Eala’s 56, while both players managed an identical 43 percent on second-serve points.

Eala also generated more chances to break, converting six of 21 opportunities, while Udvardy made good on six of 14. Both committed four double faults apiece.

Fresh off her breakthrough, Eala will aim for back-to-back triumphs when she competes at the Sao Paulo Open in Brazil from September 8 to 14.