Alex Eala Advances to Third Round of 2026 Cincinnati Open Following Ruse’s Retirement
Filipina tennis player Alex Eala began her 2026 Cincinnati Open campaign with a commanding performance, reaching the third round after leading Elena-Gabriela Ruse 6-1, 3-0 when Ruse retired early Sunday morning (Philippine time). This matchup served as a rematch from their previous encounter in the 2024 US Open qualifying round, where Ruse emerged victorious.
The opening set saw both players exchanging breaks in the first two games before Eala secured her serve in the third, taking a 2-1 lead. Eala quickly seized control, winning six consecutive games, including breaks in the fourth and sixth games, ultimately finishing the first set at 6-1.
Dominating on return, Eala capitalized on her chances, winning 71% of points on her first-serve returns and 78% against second serves. She continued her momentum into the second set, stretching her run to nine straight games for a 3-0 lead. However, Ruse called for a medical timeout after the third game to have her ankle retaped.
Following the timeout, weather conditions delayed the match due to lightning. Once it was determined that the hard courts were safe for play, Ruse opted to retire from the match, citing an ongoing injury that hindered her performance.
In the round of 32, Eala will face ninth seed Amanda Anisimova, currently ranked No. 10 in the world, who defeated Zeynep Sönmez 6-2, 6-3. Eala will aim for her eighth victory over a top-10 player this season against the American.
Special Credits: Image Courtesy of Espn
