Filipino tennis star Alexandra “Alex” Eala reached a new career-high, climbing to No. 49 in the WTA rankings this Monday following her performance at the 2026 ASB Classic in Auckland, New Zealand.

Eala’s campaign ended in the ASB Classic women’s singles semifinals, losing to China’s Xinyu Wang, 7-5, 5-7, 4-6, after a two-hour battle that showcased her powerful serves and agility. In doubles, she and partner Iva Jovic also fell in the semifinals to China’s Yifan Xu and Zhaoxuan Yang, 7-5, 6-3.

Despite not winning a title, Eala gained valuable ranking points, marking a historic milestone for Philippine tennis and confirming her as one of the country’s brightest sporting talents.

The 20-year-old talent is set to begin preparations for her first-ever Australian Open main draw appearance, having secured automatic entry through her ranking.

The Australian Open is set at Melbourne Park from January 12 to February 1.