Elise Mertens extended her perfect record against Alex Eala to three matches, defeating the Filipina, 6-3, 6-3, in the first round of the Bad Homburg Open today.
The veteran, ranked world No. 24, was composed throughout, leaving Eala with little room to find her rhythm on Center Court.
The first set showed early promise for Eala, who raced out to a 3-1 lead as both players traded heavy hits from the baseline. But Mertens steadied herself, brought out her big game, and began to dictate play—reeling off five straight games to complete the comeback and take the opening set, 6-3, on her fourth set point.
The second set was more straightforward for Mertens.
She surged to a quick 3-0 lead with powerful serving before Eala clawed one back to make it 3-1.
Mertens pushed ahead again to 4-1. Though Eala showed flashes of her best—including a sneaky drop-shot winner and an ace at 40-15 to pull it back to 4-2—the Belgian veteran proved too strong.
Mertens extended her lead to 5-2, and despite Eala valiantly saving two match points on her own serve, Mertens quickly closed out the ensuing game to secure the match, 6-3.
Despite the singles exit, Eala's week in Bad Homburg is not yet over.
The 21-year-old is still in action in the doubles draw, where she is partnered with tennis legend Venus Williams.
She will then head to Wimbledon armed with a career-high world No. 30 ranking, where she is guaranteed a seeding of at least No. 29.