Alex Eala booked her place in the Berlin Open quarterfinals as she thrashed world No. 2 Elena Rybakina 7-5, 6-4 at the Steffi Graf Stadion.
In the first set, both players fought hard from the baseline. Rybakina used her powerful serve and groundstrokes to stay level, but Eala stayed calm under pressure and played with smart angles that made Rybakina move around the court.
At 5–5, Eala raised her level, won the key games, and took the set 7–5. Eala looked confident and determined, while Rybakina appeared frustrated after missing some important points.
In the second set, Rybakina tried to attack more and take control, but Eala continued to defend well and counter with aggressive shots.
Eala’s confidence grew with every game, while Rybakina became more tense as the match slipped away. At 6–4, Eala finished the match with a strong cross-court forehand that forced an error from Rybakina.
Eala’s next opponent is Ukraine’s Elina Svitolina. This match will be the first-ever meeting between the two players.
Eala is one of the brightest young talents in women’s tennis, and Svitolina brings a wealth of experience, having turned professional in 2010 and won 20 WTA singles titles during her successful career.
