By Samantha Yu
MANILA — Pinay pride Alex Eala put up a spirited fight but ultimately bowed to former Grand Slam champion Jelena Ostapenko, who rallied from deficits in both sets to claim a quarterfinal berth at the Upper Austria Ladies Linz.
Eala showed early control in the opening set, breaking Ostapenko’s serve to build a 4-2 lead. The Latvian veteran, however, leaned on her experience and responded with a late surge, winning four straight games to steal the set.
The Filipino teenager again threatened to force a deciding set after racing to a commanding 5-1 advantage in the second frame. But Ostapenko mounted another comeback, elevating her level to capture six consecutive games and seal the victory in straight sets.
Ostapenko capitalized on six of her nine break-point opportunities, highlighting her efficiency in crucial moments.
With the win, Ostapenko advances to the quarterfinals, where she will face Elena-Gabriela Ruse, who also progressed after a tough victory.
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