![Alexandra Eala celebrates after securing her first win over Magda Linette at the ASB Classic. [photo credit: WTA Instagram]](https://sportsbytes.com.ph/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Screenshot_514-400x200.png)
Alexandra Eala and Wang Xinyu moved one win away from their first WTA Tour singles title after dominant quarterfinal victories set up a first-time semifinal clash at the ASB Classic.
![Former junior peers met for the first time, but Eala dictated every phase of the match on Thursday, January 8. [photo credit: ASB Classic Instagram]](https://sportsbytes.com.ph/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Screenshot_511-400x200.png)
Alex Eala delivered a ruthless performance in Auckland on Thursday, racing into the ASB Classic quarterfinals with a dominant straight-set victory.
![Venus Williams showed flashes of brilliance despite an opening-round loss at the ASB Classic in Auckland. [Venus Williams Instagram]](https://sportsbytes.com.ph/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Screenshot_500-400x200.png)
Venus Williams’ return to competition ended with a three-set defeat to Magda Linette at the ASB Classic in Auckland, though the former world No. 1 showed flashes of her trademark power ahead of the Australian Open.