Alexandra Eala has become the first Filipino to win a WTA singles title after defeating top seed Jessica Pegula in the delayed final of the Washington Open.
The championship match, originally scheduled for Sunday, was completed on Monday after heavy rain and lightning repeatedly interrupted play in the US capital.
Pegula, ranked world number three, claimed the opening set 6-4. However, this was before bad weather forced the first suspension with Eala leading 2-1 in the second set. Play was eventually postponed until Monday, when the 21-year-old Filipino produced a remarkable comeback to win 4-6, 6-4, 6-0.
Pegula managed just three more games after play resumed as Eala dominated the deciding set with a powerful left-handed serve and aggressive baseline play.
“I feel so much love,” Eala said after securing the biggest title of her career.
“I knew whatever happened, this match would have already been a win for me.”My first chance at a title, knowing it won’t be the last, and already achieving this milestone for my career.”
The victory will see Eala climb from 28th to a career-high 20th in the WTA rankings. Before the final, Pegula described the rising star as “the future of the tour.” After the match, the American praised her opponent’s rapid development.
“To see how far you’ve come over the last couple of years since we first played, to see the amazing fans that follow you every place you go, it’s not fun to play against, but I think it’s amazing,” Pegula said.
Eala’s triumph extended her impressive run against elite opponents. She has now won five consecutive matches against top-10 players. This includes victories over Elena Rybakina, Elina Svitolina (twice), Iga Swiatek, and now Pegula.
In the men’s final, American Taylor Fritz defeated 19-year-old Spaniard Rafael Jodar 7-6 (7-2), 6-4. The world number 10 secured his 11th ATP title and his first since winning the Eastbourne International last year.
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