Alex Eala added another milestone to her rising tennis career after capturing the WTA 125 Birmingham Open title in England, securing her first professional championship on grass and the second WTA crown of her career.
The victory marked a breakthrough moment for the Filipino tennis star, who overcame a long-standing struggle against players from the Czech Republic. By defeating Nikola Bartunkova in the tournament final, Eala not only lifted her first trophy of the 2026 season but also earned her first-ever WTA Tour win against a Czech opponent since turning professional in 2020.
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Thrilling Comeback Victory in Birmingham
The 21-year-old Filipino battled back from a first-set loss to outlast Bartunkova, 5-7, 6-3, 7-5, in a match that lasted 2 hours and 37 minutes. The victory came against her doubles partner and ended a 13-match losing streak against Czech players.
Eala’s latest triumph followed a difficult stretch against competitors from the Czech Republic, with her most recent loss coming against Karolina Muchova at the Miami Open last March. Her Birmingham breakthrough therefore carried added significance, ending a streak that had followed her throughout much of her professional career.
The championship also added to Eala’s growing list of accomplishments after she won the Guadalajara 125 Open in Mexico in September last year, which had previously stood as her lone WTA title.
“I’m so honored to lift this trophy today. Lifting this trophy only makes me more motivated to keep working,” Eala remarked after the victory.
“It’s one of those days where I hope we can both win. It’s an incredible match,” the Filipino champion added.
Joining an Elite Group of Champions
With the Birmingham Open title, Eala joins a prestigious list of players who have won the tournament, including former Grand Slam champions and former world No. 1 players Maria Sharapova, Ashleigh Barty, and Angelique Kerber.
The result further highlights Eala’s steady rise on the international tennis stage and reinforces her status as one of the Philippines’ most accomplished athletes. Her success on grass courts, traditionally considered one of the sport’s most challenging surfaces, demonstrates her growing versatility and ability to compete against top international talent.
Eala’s achievement serves as a source of national pride and inspiration for aspiring athletes. Her continued success on the global stage helps raise the profile of Philippine tennis and showcases the country's ability to produce world-class competitors in international sports.
