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Alex Eala Overcomes Late Opponent Change to Reach Hong Kong Open Second Round

Posted : 03 November 2026

Alex Eala began her Hong Kong Open campaign with an impressive straight-sets victory over Australia's Emerson Jones on Tuesday, overcoming an unexpected change of opponent to advance to the second round.

The Filipino tennis star, who recently achieved a career-high world ranking of No. 17, secured a 6-4, 6-3 win against the 18-year-old Australian in a match lasting one hour and 23 minutes.

Eala was initially scheduled to face American Alycia Parks in her opening encounter, but Parks withdrew shortly before the match because of a shoulder injury. Her withdrawal allowed Jones, who had previously failed to qualify for the main draw, to enter the tournament as a lucky loser.

Despite the late adjustment, the second-seeded Eala handled the situation confidently, benefiting from strong support from Filipino fans in the stands.

The 21-year-old made an impressive start by racing into a 4-0 lead in the opening set. However, Jones responded with three consecutive games to reduce the deficit and make the contest more competitive. Eala eventually maintained her advantage to take the set 6-4.

The second set followed a similar pattern, with Eala establishing control early and moving ahead 5-1. Jones attempted another comeback by recovering a break, but the Filipino remained composed and closed out the match 6-3.

Speaking after her victory, Eala admitted that the unexpected opponent change presented an unfamiliar challenge. She explained that professional tennis requires players to remain prepared for unexpected developments.

The Filipina also expressed her affection for Hong Kong, describing the tournament as a familiar environment because of her previous visits and the strong Filipino community in the city. She praised the local supporters for their hospitality towards her family and team.

Eala will now face Czech teenager Tereza Valentova in the round of 16. Valentova booked her place in the next round after defeating Japan's Himeno Sakatsume 6-3, 7-5.

Meanwhile, top seed Sorana Cirstea also advanced to the second round after surviving a difficult encounter against Maria Timofeeva. The Romanian recovered from losing the second set to claim a 7-6(8-6), 1-6, 7-5 victory.

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