Alexandra Eala of the Philippines returns a shot against Jessica Pegula during their match on Day 10 of the Miami Open at Hard Rock Stadium on March 27, 2025 in Miami Gardens, Florida. Al Bello, Getty Images/AFP
Filipina tennis queen Alex Eala has officially jumped to No. 56 in the Women's Tennis Association rankings, 18 places higher than her previous career-high of No. 74.
This came after Eala's qualifying-to-final campaign in the 2025 Eastbourne Open, where she concluded her run with a three-set 6-4, 1-6, 7-6 (10) loss to Australian teen Maya Joint, who denied her a breakthrough WTA title.
READ: 'I'm super, super happy': Alex Eala on cloud nine after reaching first-ever WTA Tour final
Still, it was an amazing run for Eala, who captivated the hearts of a grateful nation.
In an Instagram post, the 20-year-old lefty reflected on her recent showing, saying that the loss at the hands of Joint was "one of the toughest" in the early days of her career.
She believes that this will build her character, adding that she's shifting her focus to Wimbledon.
"A WTA trophy! Thank you everyone for the love," she wrote.
READ: 'Very proud of you': Fans cheer on Alex Eala at Eastbourne
"This has to be one of the toughest losses of my early career, but I firmly believe that it’s these moments that make you stronger and shape your character. Though I’m so happy with the positive week, it’s full speed ahead to @wimbledon."
Eala is again on a tough road, already facing defending champ Barbora Krejcikova of the Czech Republic in the first round.
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