Alex Eala is assured of at least a bronze medal in women’s singles after taking down Malaysia’s Shihomi Leong in the quarterfinals, her first match of the SEA Games 2025.
NONTHABURI — Alex Eala endured an early test of character in women's singles of SEA Games 2025 before she claimed a 6-3, 6-1 victory over Malaysia’s Shihomi Leong at the National Tennis Development Center here on Monday.
Already in the quarterfinals with a bye and not seeing action in the team event, Eala had fresh legs but still trailed early against the upset-seeking Malaysian, 1-3, in the first set.
But armed with more experience, Eala shifted gears and was able to control the match — winning five games in a row to claim the opening set. She then followed it up with a more swift victory, 6-1, in the second frame.
[RELATED: Alex Eala assured of SEA Games 2025 bronze medal with win over Malaysia’s Leong]
After the match, Eala made sure to entertain her supporters who came in droves to watch her first match of these SEA Games.
The ever-present support proved a good boost for the WTA no. 52 after encountering some early push back from her opponent.
“I’m very happy with the first round, it presented good challenges and I’m happy with how, wala, masaya ako sa crowd, madaming nanood. Maraming salamat sa supporta,” Eala told POC Media.
Eala will still play another match on Monday, partnering with Niño Alcantara in mixed doubles. They compete in the quarterfinals later today for a chance to medal. They face Wei Lin Deanne Choo and Daniel Quinsay Abadia.
A win gets them at least a bronze medal in the mixed doubles event.
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Luisa Morales is a sports writer with a special interest in promoting women’s sports.
Her coverage highlights include the UAAP, PVL, Southeast Asian Games, and the FIBA World Cup. She also follows Alex Eala, the Philippine women’s national football team, and mixed martial arts.