By Samantha Yu
MANILA — Filipina tennis standout Alexandra Eala bowed out of the Miami Open Round of 16 after encountering a dominant display from Czech veteran Karolina Muchova.
Muchova controlled the match from the outset, combining powerful returns and precise shot-making to sweep the first set 6-0. She maintained the pressure in the second frame to wrap up a 6-0, 6-2 win.
Despite the comfortable scoreline, the Czech star admitted she still needed to maintain her focus.
“Even if things seem to be going your way, you can’t relax,” Muchova said. “I’m really pleased to reach the quarterfinal stage.”
She added that her performance was the result of multiple factors, including preparation and maintaining good physical condition.
“It’s a mix of everything—training, the people supporting you and staying healthy. When everything falls into place, you can play really well.”
Next up for Muchova is a quarterfinal clash against either Mirra Andreeva or Canadian prospect Victoria Mboko. She jokingly pointed to experience as a potential edge, adding with a smile that the question made her feel “pretty old.”
Although disappointed, Eala said she carried little pressure heading into the tournament. The result still highlights a steady campaign for the young Filipina on the international stage.
Reaching the Round of 16 remains a respectable achievement and contributes to her consistent performances early in the 2026 season.
Eala also earned US$105,720 (around ₱6.3 million) in prize money from the event, providing another boost to her growing career.
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