Relive the historic quarterfinal clash between Filipina ace Alex Eala and Colombia's Camila Osorio at the 2026 WTA 125 Philippine Women's Open.
While the scoreboard at the Rizal Memorial Tennis Center read 6-4, 6-4 in Osorio's favor, the match was a testament to the surging power of women's tennis in the Philippines. Here is why this specific matchup is the talk of the tour.
Historic Achievements at Stake
This wasn't just another match; it was a collision of two players who have spent the last year shattering glass ceilings for their respective nations.
Alex Eala's Golden Run: Coming off a career-defining 2025 where she became the first Filipina to win a WTA title (Guadalajara 125 Open), Eala entered this tournament with a new career-high live ranking of World No. 45.
Camila Osorio's Experience: A former World No. 33 and a three-time WTA title winner, Osorio brought the grit of a veteran who has reached the second rounds of the French and US Opens multiple times.
Match Highlights: A Gritty Duel in Manila
The atmosphere in Manila was electric, mirroring the "crazy energy" Osorio noted she usually only feels back home in Colombia.
The "Bionic" Stand: Eala played with her right thigh heavily bandaged, a physical hurdle that didn't stop her from taking a 3-2 lead in the second set.
The Turning Point: In a heart-wrenching moment for local fans, a double fault at 4-4 in the second set handed Osorio the momentum she needed to reach match point.
Mutual Respect: Despite the fierce battle, Osorio was quick to praise Eala post-match, calling her an "amazing fighter" and "one of the most lovely girls on tour."
"Sayang, hindi pumasa sa level, pero ang importante, nandito ako sa Manila, sa Pilipinas, at nandito ang WTA." — Alex Eala
The Bigger Picture: A "Wake-Up Call"
For Alex Eala, this tournament was about more than just a trophy.
In her post-match interview, she highlighted that having a WTA event in the Philippines is a "stepping stone" for local athletes.
While the loss was tough, the fact that the Philippines is now hosting world-class talent like Osorio proves that the country is no longer just a spectator in the tennis world—it’s a destination.
Key Facts for Verification
- The Venue: Rizal Memorial Tennis Center, Manila.
- Match Duration: 1 hour and 29 minutes.
- Eala's Milestone: Projected career-high ranking of World No. 45 (WTA Live) following the tournament.
- Osorio's Rank: Entered the tournament at World No. 84.
- Next Steps: Osorio advances to face Solana Sierra (Argentina) in the semifinals; Eala heads to the Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open (WTA 500) as a wildcard entry.
Sources: Official News Sources
These outlets provided the primary coverage of the quarterfinal match held on January 29, 2026:
- Philippine News Agency (PNA):
Eala bows out of PH Women's Open - ABS-CBN News:
Camila Osorio tips hat to Alex Eala after PWO quarterfinals win - Inquirer Sports:
Alex Eala exits WTA Philippine Open, bows to Camila Osorio - GMA News Online:
Alex Eala falls short vs Camila Osorio, exits Philippine Women’s Open - One Sports:
Alex Eala bares ways of coping from losses after PWO exit
COMMENTS