Alex Eala’s coaches beam with pride after historic 2025 US Open win for the Philippines

Filipino tennis star Alex Eala etched her name in history at the 2025 US Open, becoming the first Filipina woman to record a singles victory at a Grand Slam in the Open Era.

The 20-year-old pulled off a remarkable upset in Flushing Meadows, toppling world No. 14 Clara Tauson of Denmark, 6-2, 2-6, 7-6, in a thrilling first-round clash.

Eala showed grit and composure after falling behind 1-5 in the deciding set, rallying to snatch victory and sending the 8,125 fans at Court 17 into a frenzy. Tauson, visibly unsettled by the raucous pro-Eala crowd, even complained to the umpire about distractions during play.

The win drew celebrations from across the Philippines and the Filipino expat community in the United States. Her coaches from the Rafa Nadal Academy also lauded her performance, praising her fighting spirit and poise under pressure.

“It was a very good win. The first set of Alex was, for me, one of the best sets she has ever played,” said Joan Bosch, Eala’s coach. “At 5-1 down in the third, Alex wasn’t playing badly, but Clara was really good. That’s when I told her to hit with more power. Alex always gives 100%.”

🔥 Alex Eala knocks out No.14 seed Tauson 6-2, 2-6, 7-6 (11) and becomes the first Filipina 🇵🇭 woman to record a singles win at a Grand Slam in the Open Era! VAMOOOOS‼️

pic.twitter.com/xXElKOFBfS

— Rafa Nadal Academy by Movistar (@rnadalacademy) August 24, 2025

Assistant coach Lluc Bauza highlighted her resilience and conditioning—especially after withdrawing from the Cincinnati Open just weeks ago due to a shoulder injury.

“We have been working on her fitness for many years, and now she is a tremendous mover. Her shoulder recovery was completed weeks before the US Open, and she is all clear,” Bauza said.

Eala, who still sported shoulder taping during the match, will resume training immediately despite the physical demands of her three-set battle.

“Tomorrow, yes, she will practice,” Bauza confirmed. “She is used to matches like this. Alex is prepared, and she has a good fitness team behind her.”

With the historic victory, Eala now advances to the second round, where she will face the winner of the match between world No. 95 Cristina Bucsa and American qualifier Claire Liu.

OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.