Alex Eala stays hot in Melbourne with win over Donna Vekic at Kooyong Classic

Dubai: Filipino tennis star Alexandra ‘Alex’ Eala defeated Croatia’s Donna Vekic in straight sets, 6-3, 6-4, at the Kooyong Classic exhibition tournament.

The victory marks the second time in less than 10 days that the Filipina has bested the world No. 70. Eala previously edged out the veteran in a gruelling three-set encounter during the opening round of the ASB Classic in Auckland, New Zealand, on 6 January.

Unlike their previous meeting, which saw Eala come from behind to secure a 4-6, 6-4, 6-4 win, the Melbourne exhibition saw the 20-year-old dictate the pace early. Eala showed clinical form throughout the match, navigating the exchanges to wrap up the contest without dropping a set.

The Kooyong Classic, held at the historic Kooyong Lawn Tennis Club, serves as a traditional invitation-only warm-up for both ATP and WTA players ahead of the season’s first Grand Slam.

The stint in Melbourne is a critical component of Eala's final preparations for the Australian Open, which is scheduled to run from 18 January to 1 February. Officials noted that the exhibition provides athletes with a high-intensity environment to fine-tune their rhythm against top-tier opposition before the main draw begins at Melbourne Park.