Alex Eala overcame a long-standing winless streak against Czech opponents to capture the Birmingham Open WTA 125 title on Sunday.
The World No. 37 Filipina defeated Nikola Bartunkova in a hard-fought three-set final, 5-7, 6-3, 7-5, after previously going 0-13 against Czech players since turning professional in 2020.
Despite falling behind at key moments in the match, Eala showed resilience to recover and force a deciding set.
She eventually pulled ahead late in the third set to secure her second WTA 125 championship.
Eala said she was grateful for the tough match and sportsmanship shown by her opponent as she quickly shifted focus to her next tournament at Queen’s Club.
Source: PhilNews24 | June 8, 2026
