Why it's trending
Eala's comeback upset of former World No. 4 Zheng Qinwen, combined with her dramatic seven-game run, captured tennis fans' attention. The victory also sets up a high-profile match against defending champion Leylah Fernandez, increasing search interest.
Alexandra Eala pulled off a dramatic comeback victory over former World No. 4 Zheng Qinwen in the first round of the Mubadala Citi DC Open on Tuesday, winning 4-6, 6-4, 6-1. According to WTA Tennis, Eala was down a set and a break before winning seven straight games to take control of the match. 'I think I've already had that in me,' Eala told press after the win, attributing her resilience to experience gained from playing more three-set matches against top opponents.
The match was the first meeting between Eala and Zheng on the WTA Tour, leveling their head-to-head at 1-1. ESPN noted that Zheng won a three-hour thriller at the 2023 Asian Games. Eala, ranked World No. 28, broke Zheng at love twice during her comeback run. The victory was Eala's fourth win over a Top 10 player (Zheng was formerly No. 4 but is now ranked No. 123).
Tournament chairman Mark Ein told media that a huge effort was made to bring Eala to Washington in the spring, as reported by WTA Tennis. Eala's win sets up a Round of 16 match against reigning champion Leylah Fernandez, who defeated Magda Linette in straight sets on Monday. The match is scheduled for later this week.
Eala's performance underscores her rising status on the WTA Tour. She has now won multiple three-set matches against top-tier opponents, demonstrating both mental fortitude and improved game level. Fans will watch closely to see if she can continue her momentum against Fernandez, who won the DC Open title in 2025.
Timeline
- Zheng Qinwen defeats Alex Eala in three-hour thriller
Zheng won a three-set match against Eala, as reported by ESPN. This was their only previous meeting before the DC Open.
- Eala rallies past Zheng in DC Open first round
Alex Eala defeated wild card Zheng Qinwen 4-6, 6-4, 6-1, overcoming a set and a break deficit. The win leveled their head-to-head at 1-1.
- Eala to face defending champion Leylah Fernandez in Round of 16
Eala will play Leylah Fernandez, who defeated Magda Linette in straight sets, in the second round of the Mubadala Citi DC Open.
Questions people ask
How did Alex Eala win against Zheng Qinwen?
Eala was down a set and a break before winning seven consecutive games, including breaking Zheng at love twice, to win 4-6, 6-4, 6-1. She credited her grit and experience for the comeback.
Who is Alex Eala playing next?
Eala will face reigning champion Leylah Fernandez in the second round. Fernandez advanced by defeating Magda Linette in straight sets on Monday.
What is Alex Eala's current ranking?
According to the WTA, Eala is ranked World No. 28 on the WTA Tour Driven by Mercedes-Benz.
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