Alexandra Eala Upsets Yastremska at Indian Wells | BNP Paribas Open 2024
INDIAN WELLS, CA – – Alexandra Eala delivered a stunning performance at the BNP Paribas Open on Saturday night, overcoming Dayana Yastremska in a grueling three-set match to advance to the third round. The 20-year-classic Filipina rallied for a 7-5, 4-6, 7-5 victory, showcasing a resilience that has quickly grow a hallmark of her burgeoning career.
The match, stretching nearly three hours under the desert lights, saw Eala face a formidable opponent in Yastremska, a former Grand Slam semifinalist. Despite the late hour and dipping temperatures, a dedicated contingent of Eala’s supporters filled the stands, waving Philippine flags and providing a vocal boost throughout the contest.
“It means the world to have this community behind me in such a prestigious tournament,” Eala said after the match. “For them to make the effort to stay up late and stay in the cold and cheer me on…it really added to the feelings and the emotions after the match.”
The deciding set proved to be a tense affair. Yastremska secured a break to lead 5-4, seemingly on the verge of closing out the match. However, Eala responded immediately, capitalizing on a double fault from her opponent to break back and level the set. The momentum shifted decisively in Eala’s favor, as she then held serve and broke Yastremska once more to secure the victory. A fourth match point materialized after another double fault from Yastremska, ultimately sealed when Yastremska’s forehand sailed long.
Eala’s comeback was particularly impressive given the circumstances. She had been broken at 4-4 in the final set, facing a critical juncture in the match. But she refused to yield, demonstrating the mental fortitude she herself identified as her greatest strength. “I just told myself to retain fighting and I was still in the match. I really had to dig deep for that one,” Eala explained.
This victory sets up a highly anticipated rematch with Coco Gauff in the third round. The two players recently met in Dubai last month, where Gauff dominated Eala with a 6-0, 6-2 scoreline. However, Eala appears to be gaining momentum and confidence with each match, and the different setting of Indian Wells, coupled with the fervent support of her fans, could prove to be a significant advantage.
Eala’s journey to this point has been marked by a series of impressive comebacks. Her ‘career-defining’ victory over Aliaksandra Sasnovich in Abu Dhabi earlier this season highlighted her ability to perform under pressure and turn seemingly insurmountable deficits into triumphs. This latest win against Yastremska further solidifies that reputation.
Beyond the on-court battles, Eala’s presence in Indian Wells has already generated considerable excitement. Her practice sessions were reportedly packed with supporters even before she played a competitive match, a testament to her growing popularity and the passionate following she has cultivated.
Eala’s mindset, she stated in December, is what truly sets her apart. “There was a moment of realisation where I thought, it’s very difficult, personally, to define what’s a champion’s mentality. I feel like that’s very subjective and situational,” she said. “I say this a lot, but I feel my biggest strength is my mindset. I don’t think I’m the best in the world at any of those things [forehand, backhand, drop shot]. The thing that I can control the most is how I think, how I approach certain obstacles.”
That mindset was on full display against Yastremska, and it will undoubtedly be tested again when she faces Gauff. Whereas Gauff will enter the match as the clear favorite, Eala has already proven she is capable of challenging the best players in the world. Her ability to remain composed, fight for every point, and draw strength from her supporters makes her a dangerous opponent, and a rising star to watch in the world of professional tennis.
The match against Gauff promises to be a compelling contest, pitting two of the sport’s most exciting young talents against each other. For Eala, it’s an opportunity to avenge her earlier loss to Gauff and further establish herself as a force to be reckoned with on the WTA Tour. The third round encounter will be a significant test of her progress and a showcase of her unwavering determination.