Alex Eala-Venus Williams tandem bows out of National Bank Open doubles

TORONTO, Canada — Alex Eala and seven-time Grand Slam singles champion Venus Williams bowed out of the women’s doubles competition at the National Bank Open after falling to the experienced tandem of Liudmila Samsonova and Miyu Kato in the Round of 32 on Thursday (Friday, Manila time).

Samsonova and Kato proved too steady throughout the opening-round encounter, eliminating the Filipino-American pair in straight sets, 6-4, 6-3, on Centre Court at Sobeys Stadium.

The Russian-Japanese duo capitalized on key service breaks in both sets while limiting unforced errors to deny Eala and Williams the opportunity to mount a comeback.

READ: Alex Eala advances in Toronto, avenging Australian Open loss to Parks

Eala and Williams entered Toronto looking to build on their growing chemistry after previously teaming up during the grass-court season. Their partnership had generated considerable attention, with fans eager to see the reigning Washington Open singles champion share the court once again with one of tennis’ greatest icons.

The loss ended their doubles campaign in Toronto but Eala remains alive in the singles draw, where she advanced after defeating Alycia Parks, 6-1, 4-6, 6-2, in her opening match.

She will next face Caty McNally.

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