Naomi Osaka praises Alex Eala after DC Open loss: ‘She’s a star’

Alex Eala is one win away from capturing the biggest title of her professional career after delivering a statement victory over former world No. 1 Naomi Osaka in the semifinals of the DC Open.

The 21-year-old Filipina defeated the four-time Grand Slam champion in straight sets, 6-4, 6-2, during their first-ever meeting at the William H.G. FitzGerald Tennis Center in Washington.

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The victory booked Eala’s place in her maiden WTA 500 final. Despite the significance of the achievement, Eala remained focused on the task ahead, acknowledging that her journey in the tournament is not over.

‘One more match’

“One more match, I guess, but I’m super, super happy. I think I played really well and, of course, it was such a meaningful match against a great player. So I’m really happy to share the court with Naomi. Such an honor to share the court with her,” she said.

Osaka, meanwhile, had nothing but admiration for her young opponent after the match. The Japanese star praised Eala’s potential and the impact she is already making on the sport.

‘She’s a star’

“She’s an amazing player,” Osaka said. “She’s incredible. I think she’s a star. And it’s just really cool to have someone like her that I guess people can look up to, and for me, I think it’s amazing that she’s such an inspiration, and I really love hearing her talk because it’s really cool the things that she says.”

Reaching the championship match of a WTA 500 event is expected to further boost her confidence as she continues to climb the rankings and establish herself among the tour’s rising stars.

Standing between Eala and her first WTA 500 crown is top seed Jessica Pegula. The American will meet the Filipina in the tournament final on Sunday, Aug. 2, with Eala aiming to cap off her historic week by claiming the biggest title of her young career.

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