Eala Sweeps Past Sonmez To Reach Abu Dhabi Second Round

In photo: Philppine Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates together with FIlipina tennis star Alex Eala during the ceremonial coin toss at the Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open 2026 on Monday night

ABU DHABI, UAE – Filipina tennis sensation Alex Eala kicked off her Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open campaign in style, defeating Turkey’s Zeynep Sonmez in straight sets, 6-4, 6-3, on 02 February 2026.

Playing at the Zayed Sports City’s International Tennis Centre, the 20-year-old left-hander displayed clinical precision to dispatch her Turkish opponent in one hour and 31 minutes. The victory further solidifies Eala’s dominance in their head-to-head record, which now stands at 3-0 in favour of the world No. 45.

The opening set saw a competitive exchange as Sonmez, ranked 79th, fought back to level the score at 3-all after Eala took an early lead. However, Eala’s composure shone through as she secured three of the final four games to take the first set.

In the second set, Eala raced to a 3-0 lead. Despite a spirited challenge from Sonmez, Eala remained firm, breaking serve in a crucial "love game" to lead 5-3 before serving out the match on her second match point.

Eala enters the WTA 500 tournament on the back of a career-high ranking and a strong 2025 season that saw her break into the world's top 50. Her performance in Abu Dhabi has been met with significant enthusiasm from the local Filipino community, who turned out in large numbers to support her practice sessions and opening match.

Following the win, Eala shared a warm exchange at the net with Sonmez, whom she described as a "close friend."

The victory sets up a Round of 16 clash for Eala against 31-year-old veteran Aliaksandra Sasnovich. Sasnovich, currently ranked 109th, advanced after pulling off a significant upset against the eighth seed, Paula Badosa.