Alex Eala Stuns Clara Tauson to Make Philippine Tennis History at US Open

August 25, 2025 – Flushing Meadows, New York — In a performance that will be remembered for years to come, 20-year-old Filipina Alexandra “Alex” Eala delivered a breathtaking comeback to defeat world No. 14 and 14th seed Clara Tauson of Denmark, 6-3, 2-6, 7-6 (13-11), in her first-round match at the 2025 US Open. The victory marked a momentous milestone: she became the first Filipino in the Open Era to win a Grand Slam main draw singles match.

Eala’s path to victory was as dramatic as it was historic. After taking the first set 6-3, she dropped the second 2-6. In the decider, Tauson surged ahead to a commanding 5-1 lead. But with the crowd firmly behind her—many hailing from Queens’s vibrant Filipino community—Eala mounted a fearless rally, winning five consecutive games and pushing the match into a tension-filled tiebreak.

In the tiebreak, Eala saved match points and stayed resilient through a nerve-wracking finish, ultimately prevailing 13-11 in a marathon lasting 2 hours and 36 minutes. Overcome with emotion, she collapsed to the court in tears upon realizing the historic nature of her win.

“This match is one for the books, for me,” Eala reflected. “To be Filipino is something I take so much pride in. …I’m so grateful that they made me feel like I’m home.”

Her breakthrough isn’t just a personal triumph but a regional one too. In the same round, Indonesia’s Janice Tjen pulled off a similar upset—becoming the first Indonesian to win a Grand Slam main draw match in 22 years. Together, their wins helped shine a rare spotlight on Southeast Asian talent in professional tennis.

Looking ahead, Eala is set to face either Spain’s Cristina Bucsa or American Claire Liu in the second round. Analysts note that with her newfound momentum, a third-round spot is within reach, potentially setting up a clash with higher-ranked opposition—but the confidence she carries will make her a dangerous contender.

Eala’s rise this 2025 has been nothing short of remarkable. Earlier in the year, she broke into the WTA top 100 after a breakthrough performance at the Miami Open—beating Jelena Ostapenko, Madison Keys, and Iga Świątek en route to the semifinals. She then became the first Filipina to reach a WTA final, doing so at Eastbourne in June.

Now, her success at Flushing Meadows cements her legacy in Philippine tennis lore. As she prepares for the second round, expectations are high—not just as a champion for her nation, but as a player poised to leave a lasting legacy on the world stage.