Alex Eala Exits Italian Open After Brave Fight Against World No. 2 Elena Rybakina

ROME, Italy — Filipina tennis sensation Alex Eala bowed out of the Italian Open after a valiant effort against world No. 2 Elena Rybakina, who secured a straight-sets victory, 6-4, 6-3, in their third-round clash on Sunday at the BNP Paribas Arena.

Eala showed flashes of brilliance throughout the match, challenging one of women’s tennis’ elite stars with aggressive baseline play and determined defense.

The young Filipina fought back strongly in the opening set after trailing 3-5, extending the battle and forcing pressure on Rybakina before the Kazakh ace closed it out, 6-4.

In the second set, Eala quickly responded after being broken early, breaking back immediately and even taking a brief 2-1 lead. However, Rybakina’s experience, powerful serves, and composure under pressure proved too much as she regained control and sealed the win.

Despite the loss, Eala’s impressive run in Rome included victories over Magdalena Fręch and Wang Xinyu, further cementing her rise as one of Asia’s brightest tennis stars.

Eala now shifts focus to the doubles competition, where she will team up with Hailey Baptiste for the next stage of the tournament.