19-year-old Filipino tennis player Alexandra Eala caused a stir at the Miami Open 2025 when she defeated world No. 2 Iga Swiatek 6-2, 7-5, advancing to the semi-finals and breaking many records, becoming the pride of Southeast Asian tennis.

Video Eala defeats Swiatek in Miami Open women’s singles quarterfinals

19-year-old Filipino tennis player causes a stir at Miami Open

At the Miami Open 2025, a fairy tale is being written by the young Filipino tennis player, Alexandra Eala. At only 19 years old, Eala created the biggest shock in the tennis world when she excellently defeated the world number 2, Iga Swiatek, with a score of 6-2, 7-5 in the quarterfinals. This impressive victory helped Eala reach the semi-finals of the prestigious WTA 1000 tournament .

Eala sheds tears after defeating Swiatek in the quarterfinals of the Miami Open 2025

Eala, ranked only 140th in the world and entering the Miami Open on a wildcard, continues to surprise the international tennis world. His match against Swiatek, a star from Poland, was one of the most impressive feats of his career. 

In the first set, Eala played extremely tight and took full advantage of every opportunity, making it impossible for Swiatek to respond effectively. In the second set, although Swiatek had moments of strong resistance, Eala still maintained his composure and determination, to win the ultimate victory.

Before that, she defeated very strong opponents such as Jelena Ostapenko, Madison Keys, and Paula Badosa (withdrawn due to injury), creating a magical journey. With the victory over Swiatek, Eala had a significant breakthrough in the rankings and is expected to enter the world top 75.

Breakthroughs and new records

Eala not only impressed with her wins over big-name players, but she also broke several historical records at the Miami Open. 

She became the first Filipino player to reach the semifinals of a WTA 1000 tournament in the 21st century and the only Southeast Asian player to advance deep into a major tournament. Eala also officially became the second youngest backhand player to reach the semifinals of the Miami Open, after Monica Seles in 1990 and 1991.

She is the third player in Miami Open history to reach the semifinals in her debut, following Mary Joe Fernandez (1988) and Danielle Collins (2018). 

Eala also became the third player in history to participate in the Miami Open with a wildcard but reach the semi-finals, previously Justine Henin (2010) and Victoria Azarenka (2018).

Eala proved that the combination of technique, strength and perseverance can help her overcome any limit. With her victory over Swiatek, Eala not only brought pride to the Philippines but also became a role model for Southeast Asia in  sports .

At just 19 years old, she has shown her ability to make a name for herself at major tennis tournaments, opening up great hope for the future of tennis in the region. Fans are waiting for Eala to continue writing history, the Filipino girl will face Jessica Pegula in the semifinals of the Miami Open 2025, at around 7:30 am on March 28.