Alex Eala Falls in Asian Games Semifinals Again, Settles for Bronze

Alex Eala’s quest for a breakthrough Asian Games singles title ended in disappointment Thursday as the Philippines’ top tennis star suffered a three-set defeat in the semifinals for the second consecutive Games.

The 21-year-old Eala fell to China’s Wang Xiyu, 3-6, 6-3, 6-2, at the 2026 Asian Games in Nagoya, Japan, surrendering an early advantage and settling for a bronze medal in women’s singles. The result mirrored her semifinal exit at the 2023 Asian Games in Hangzhou, where she also earned bronze. <escape>Reuters</escape>

The loss was particularly disappointing for Eala, who entered the tournament as the top seed and world No. 18. She had hoped to become the first woman from the Philippines to capture the Asian Games singles gold medal and secure direct qualification for the tennis competition at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

Instead, Wang, ranked No. 85 in the world, rallied from a set down to advance to the gold-medal match against compatriot Zhang Shuai.

Eala Starts Strong Before Wang Takes Control

Eala appeared to be in command early, racing to a 5-0 lead in the opening set. Although Wang fought back to win three consecutive games, the Filipina regrouped to close out the set, 6-3.

The momentum shifted dramatically in the second set. Wang established a 5-1 advantage as Eala struggled to maintain her early consistency. The Filipina mounted a brief comeback by winning two straight games, but Wang held on to take the set 6-3 and force a deciding third set.

Wang continued to dictate play in the final set, building a 4-1 lead and preventing Eala from mounting another sustained challenge. The Chinese player ultimately completed the comeback, 6-2, to secure her place in the final.