Fresh off her title run at the Mubadala DC Open, Alex Eala opened her campaign in the WTA 1000 National Bank Open with a victory, defeating Alycia Parks, 6-1, 4-6, 6-2, on Thursday (Philippine time).

Eala dominated the opening set, 6-1, but Parks fought back in the second frame, using her power and service to force a decider with a 6-4 win.

In the third set, Eala quickly regained control, building an early lead and capitalizing on Parks’ errors. The Filipina held her composure in the closing stretch, sealing the win with a strong finish to secure her place in the Round of 32.

In her post-match interview, Eala expressed gratitude to her supporters, saying in Filipino: “Linggo-linggo ko nakikita kung gaano niyo kamahal ang kapwa niyo Pinoy. Kaya proud na proud na proud na proud ako din maging Pinoy. Maraming salamat, mga kababayan. Mahal ko kayong lahat.”

Eala will next face Caty McNally on Saturday (Philippine time) for a spot in the Round of 16.

The win continues Eala’s strong form following her breakthrough title in Washington, marking a solid start in one of the tour’s premier WTA 1000 events.