Tennis: Philippines’ Eala wins first WTA title, Fritz claims DC crown
Alexandra Eala became the first player from the Philippines to win a WTA Tour-level singles title at the Mubadala DC Open. Meanwhile, Taylor Fritz secured the men's title by defeating Rafael Jodar.
Why it matters
Eala's victory marks a significant milestone for tennis in the Philippines and highlights the rise of new talent in the sport.
Alex Eala rallies past top seed Jessica Pegula in a two-day, rain-hit final, while Taylor Fritz beats teen Rafael Jodar.
x whatsapp-stroke copylink google Add Al Jazeera on Google info Alexandra Eala of the Philippines celebrates with the Championship Trophy after winning the women's singles championship match against Jessica Pegula of the United States on the final day of the Mubadala DC Open on August 3, 2026, in Washington, DC [Scott Taetsch/Getty Images via AFP] By AP and Reuters Published On 3 Aug 2026 3 Aug 2026 Alexandra Eala made history as the first player from the Philippines to win a WTA Tour-level singles title, defeating top seed Jessica Pegula at the Mubadala DC Open before Taylor Fritz claimed the men’s crown.
The 21-year-old Eala rallied to beat world number three Pegula 4-6, 6-4, 6-0 in a weather-disrupted women’s final that spanned two days, ending on Monday.
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