Filipina tennis standout Alex Eala advanced to the Round of 16 of the Indian Wells Open after American world No. 4 Coco Gauff retired due to injury during their Round of 32 clash on Monday in California, USA.
Eala secured the victory with the score at 6–2, 2–0 before Gauff withdrew due to a medical issue involving her left arm.
The win marked redemption for Eala, who previously suffered a 6–0, 6–2 defeat against Gauff in the Dubai Tennis Championships quarterfinals last February 20.
“I really didn’t wanna win this way, but this is still a really big moment for me to be able to play on the stadium of the Indian Wells and against such a great competitor. I’m really grateful to be here and I’m super happy,” Eala said in her post-game interview.
Strong Comeback
Gauff opened strong with a 2–1 lead in the first set, but Eala quickly shifted momentum, winning five consecutive games to close out the set 6–2.
Gauff called for a medical timeout to examine her left arm but struggled upon returning, committing a double fault that sealed the set for Eala.
Early Lead Before Retirement
Eala carried her momentum into the second set, building a 2–0 advantage before Gauff retired, handing the Filipina the victory.
With the win, Eala advances to face Czech world No. 14 Linda Noskova in the Round of 16, marking another milestone in her campaign at one of the sport’s biggest tournaments.