Mar 26, 2025; Miami, FL, USA; Alexandra Eala (PHL) serves against Iga Swiatek (POL)(not pictured) on day nine of the Miami Open at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images
(Reuters) - Alexandra Eala was left star-struck by Iga Swiatek in 2023 after meeting the Pole at the Rafa Nadal Academy during her graduation ceremony but the Philippine wildcard gave her idol no quarter at the Miami Open on Wednesday in a massive quarter-final upset.
The 19-year-old played the match of her life to beat world number two Swiatek 6-2 7-5, reacting with disbelief and nearly sobbing on court after claiming a place in her first WTA semi-final.
