AUCKLAND – Filipina tennis sensation Alex Eala kicked off her 2026 season with a gritty comeback victory, defeating Croatia’s Donna Vekic 4-6, 6-4, 6-4 in the first round of the ASB Classic (WTA 250) on January 6, 2026. The 20-year-old, seeded fourth and ranked world No. 53, overcame a set deficit and a resilient Olympic silver medalist (world No. 69) in a thrilling two-hour, 40-minute battle at the Manuka Doctor Arena.
Eala raced to a 3-0 lead early but struggled with Vekic’s high balls and experience, dropping the first set 6-4. She regrouped impressively, breaking decisively in the second and third sets despite ties at 3-3. Fueled by a vocal Filipino crowd in Auckland, Eala sealed the win with powerful forehands and composure under pressure.
Post-match, Eala shared: “It’s so special… Home is the people and not the place. Donna is experienced, talented, and decorated—I had a tough time, but I’m proud of competing at this level after a hard preseason.”
She advances to the round of 16 against another Croatian, Petra Marcinko (world No. 82), who upset Camila Osorio.
This win—Eala’s first singles of 2026—follows her doubles triumph with Iva Jovic over Venus Williams/Elina Svitolina. A strong start for the rising star!
Match Stats Snapshot:
| Player | Sets Won | Key Moments |
|---|---|---|
| Alex Eala | 2 | Comeback from 0-3 & set down; crowd boost |
| Donna Vekic | 1 | Early momentum; 7 aces but 9 double faults |
Proud of you, Alex—keep shining! 🇵🇭🎾