Alexandra Eala Fights Past Gibson To Set Up Diana Shnaider Clash In Tokyo
Alexandra Eala shows fighting spirit to beat Australia's Talia Gibson in three sets and move into the quarter-finals of the Pan Pacific Open in Tokyo.
Alexandra Eala stages comeback win over Talia Gibson in Tokyo...
Alexandra Eala staged a comeback to defeat Talia Gibson 4-6, 6-2, 6-0 in Tokyo on Wednesday, admitting afterwards that “it took a lot to turn that match around.”
The 19-year-old world No.19, who had suffered a string of early defeats in recent weeks, was in trouble when 38th-ranked Australian Gibson claimed the opening set at the Pan Pacific Open.
Eala showed resilience to level the contest before raising her game to dominate the deciding set.
The 21-year-old described the turnaround as “a gradual increase of level.”
“Maybe just a couple of small details that, when accumulated, make a big difference,” she said.
“In one 30-all I went more for my shot or in one deuce I did so and so.
“Those little details, when all summed up, that's the difference.'
The Filipina will now take on third seed Diana Shnaider of Russia for a place in the semi-finals.
Eala, who in August made history as the first Filipina to capture a WTA Tour title, continues to generate huge attention back home with every appearance.
Despite enjoying strong backing from her fans in Tokyo, Eala found herself under pressure in the opener as Gibson capitalized on her missed opportunities.
She launched her fightback in the second set, though she still failed to make the most of several openings to put Gibson away.
Eala grew stronger as the contest entered its final set, sealing victory after Gibson netted a return.
She finished the match with nine aces and six breaks of serve.
“Of course the support helps a lot all the time,” said Eala.
“It creates a great atmosphere, and I think there was a bit of back and forth within the crowd.
“You want to be present; you're very invested in the match, so it comes naturally to focus.”
Shnaider moved into the last eight after overcoming Aliaksandra Sasnovich of Belarus 6-3, 6-7(5), 6-3.
Top seed Elena Rybakina will begin her campaign on Thursday against compatriot Yulia Putintseva.
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