Alex Eala continued her strong run at the 33rd Southeast Asian Games after dispatching Malaysia’s Shihomi Leong, 6-3, 6-1, to advance to the women’s singles semifinals at the National Tennis Development Center on Monday, December 15.

The victory assured Eala of at least a bronze medal, adding to her growing collection in the biennial meet.

The 20-year-old Filipino star wasted little time asserting control, especially in the second set where she dictated play from start to finish.

Strong response after early setback

Eala faced early resistance in the opening set when she fell behind 1-3, but she quickly flipped the script by rattling off five straight games to seize the momentum.

After sitting out singles action during the team competition, the world No. 53 looked sharp in her first individual match of the tournament.

The crowd turnout was significant, with fans packing the stands to watch the Philippines’ top-ranked player in action.

“I’m very happy with the match. It gave good challenges, and I really enjoyed playing with so many people watching. Thank you very much for the support,” Eala said in a mix of English and Filipino in an interview with POC Media.

More medals still in play

Eala will face Thailand’s Thasasporn Naklo in the semifinals as she eyes an upgrade from the bronze medal she earned at the 2022 SEA Games in Vietnam.

She already secured one bronze medal in the team event earlier in the competition.

Later Monday, Eala is set to return to the court in mixed doubles alongside Niño Alcantara, also in the quarterfinal round, where another podium finish is within reach.