(UPDATED) Filipina tennis ace Alex Eala's magical run in the WTA 500 Berlin Open came to a halt early Sunday as lost to Linda Nosková of the Czech Republic, 2-6 4-6, in their semifinals clash.
Noskova came out firing with power and precision, striking the ball cleanly and earning an early break to take a 3-1 lead.
Two strong serves and two winners in the sixth game helped the 13th seed extend her advantage to 4-2.
Her timing and shot selection were spot on as she continued to find winner after winner.
Noskova widened the gap with another break for a 5-2 lead and then confidently served out the set, taking it 6-2.
Alex Eala started the second set with a solid hold of serve, but Noskova responded immediately to level at 1-1.
The Czech then moved back in front with a break for 2-1 and continued to overpower Eala, stretching her lead to 3-1.
Eala secured a crucial hold in the fifth game to stay within striking distance at 3-2.
She then earned a vital break, winning a lengthy rally at deuce before Noskova followed with a double fault, allowing Eala to level the set at 3-3.
As Noskova’s level dipped, Eala took full advantage.
Staying composed and largely error-free while increasing her aggression, the Filipina grabbed the momentum and moved ahead 4-3.
Noskova held serve to level at 4-4, broke at love to lead, 5-4, and later seal the victory.
She will meet Jessica Pegula in the Berlin final.