Alex Eala Aims for Asian Swing Reset and P11.7‑M Purse at Ningbo Open

Filipina tennis sensation Alex Eala arrived at the 2026 Ningbo Open with a clear objective: to reset her Asian swing after a series of early exits on the WTA Tour. The 20‑year‑old, who has been working to regain consistency, saw the tournament in China as a chance to turn things around.

In her opening match, Eala faced world No. 32 Diane Parry of France. Displaying focused aggression, she secured a straight‑sets victory, 6‑3, 6‑1, snapping a three‑match losing streak and advancing to the Round of 16. ESPN reported that she viewed the win as a crucial step toward regaining her footing on the Asian swing.

The victory also kept her hopes alive for a substantial payday. According to the Philippine Tribune, Eala has her eyes on the tournament’s purse of approximately P11.7 million, a sum that would provide a significant boost to her season earnings.

In a post‑match interview, Eala emphasized the learning process, stating that each match is an opportunity to refine her game and build confidence for the challenges ahead. Philippine Daily Inquirer’s live coverage highlighted her composure and determination on court.

Looking forward, Eala will now prepare for her second‑round opponent, hoping to carry the momentum from her strong start deeper into the draw. Fans across the Philippines will be watching closely as she continues her quest for a breakthrough result in the Ningbo Open.