Alex Eala Reaches Hong Kong Open Final

Tournament sell-outs linked to her large Filipino following highlight a commercial pull likely to boost her momentum into 2027 majors.

Overview

Eala beat Maria Sakkari 7-5, 3-6, 6-4 in the semifinal to reach the Hong Kong Open final.
She will face Claire Liu in a rematch of their only prior meeting when Liu beat Eala in Guangzhou last year.
The world number 17 is chasing a second WTA title after winning in Washington earlier this season.
Tournament director Peter Johnston credited Eala with driving near sell-outs at Victoria Park and praised the large, engaged Filipino crowd.
Eala said she is very motivated and plans to stay calm and give her best in the final, a result that could lift her ranking and increase her commercial profile.