MANILA – Fresh off one of the biggest titles of her young professional career, Alexandra Eala vowed to keep pushing for greater achievements after capturing the 2026 Birmingham Open championship and joining a prestigious roster of former winners that includes Billie Jean King, Martina Navratilova, Maria Sharapova and Petra Kvitova.
The 21-year-old Filipina completed a remarkable title run by overcoming Czech challenger Nikola Bartunkova, 5-7, 6-3, 7-5, in a gripping championship match, further boosting her growing reputation on the international tennis circuit.
“It sounds really beautiful of course. All those names that you’ve mentioned are tennis greats. And I am so honored to be lifting this trophy today,” Eala said during the awarding ceremony.
Despite the milestone victory, Eala stressed that the title serves as motivation rather than a destination in her career.
“But lifting this trophy does not mean that I will be among the greats yet. So I am motivated to keep working. And I am grateful for the part that this trophy has played in my journey,” she added.
Eala also acknowledged Bartunkova, who was likewise her doubles partner during the tournament, praising the Czech’s performance and the competitiveness of the final.
“I’d also like to thank Nicola for those kind words. And of course congratulate you for an amazing week. And it’s one of those days I wish we could both win,” Eala said.
“And of course this match was incredible. I think it was anyone’s game. So congratulations. Congratulations to your team,” she added.
The Birmingham Open triumph marks another major step in Eala’s ascent in world tennis and strengthens her momentum heading into the grass-court season.
There will be little time for celebration, however, as Eala is set to continue her campaign at the Queen’s Club Championships, which begins this week./PN
