TENNIS: Alex Eala defeats Yastremska in epic Indian Wells battle

The Philippines' Alex Eala subdued Dayana Yastremska of Ukraine in the round of 64 at the WTA 1000 Indial Wells Open behind a pro-Eala crowd in Indian Wells, Callifornia.

Eala needed to power through the third and final set to clinch the match, 7-5, 4-6, 7-5. She will advance to the round of 32.

The Ukrainian was first to reach 5 games in the third set as Eala played catch up to tie the set 5-5. After Eala scored ahead at 6-5, Yastremska dug deep to frustrate Eala with numerous match points squandered.

The world number 32 Eala first met the number 52 Yastremska at the Eastbourne Open in 2025 where Eala also won. The winner of the WTA 1000 event will get 1000 points.