Tennis

Mutua Madrid Open: Iga Swiatek Wins Revenge Match Over Alexandra Eala

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By
wendioliveros
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wendioliveros Sports Editor

Wendi Oliveros is a diehard tennis fan that is known to set her clock at ridiculous hours to watch live action especially during the Australian Open. She is known for indulging in strawberries and cream during Wimbledon and has watched the US Open live several times.

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Sports Editor

Published24 Apr 2025

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Iga Swiatek

World No. 2 and 2024 Mutua Madrid Open champion Iga Swiatek was in a deep sweat for a set and a half.  Alexandra Eala, the teenage Filipina player who upset her in straight sets at the Miami Open, was knocking on the door of another upset.

Then, Swiatek tightened up her game. She minimized the unforced errors and served better to win five straight games between the end of the second set and the beginning of the third set.

The win gives Iga Swiatek a huge confidence boost. By her lofty standards, this season could be considered disappointing. She has yet to win a WTA title. However, it is clay court season, the surface where Swiatek shines.

Eala is a great talent. The 19-year-old has a huge forehand and the demeanor of a seasoned professional.  She does not get rattled.  Age and experience will improve her serve speed and footwork on the clay.  Surprisingly, she does not slide on clay.   This match was over two hours long. Eala lost some steam as it progressed into the third set.  Her ability to stay in long matches will also improve as she continues to play.

Alexandra Eala has a bright future, and this could be the beginning of a great rivalry that tennis fans can enjoy for years to come.

What’s Next For Iga Swiatek?

Swiatek will face Linda Noskova in the Round of 32.  Her other nemesis, who has an unbeaten streak against her, Jelena Ostapenko, lost to fellow Latvian Anastasija Sevastova in straight sets.  Ostapenko, the 2025 Porsche Tennis Grand Prix champion, was on Swiatek’s side of the draw and was on a collision course to meet her again in the Round of 16.

With the top seeds receiving first-round byes, we have yet to see World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka in action.  WTA second-round play continues Thursday and Friday.