ALEX Eala got off to a strong start in the Oeiras Ladies Open in Portugal, and the Filipino tennis sensation couldn’t help but get thrilled.

Eala pocketed her first victory in her claycourt season campaign, dominating Anouk Koevermans of the Netherlands, 6-3, 6-4, in the tournament’s opening round on Tuesday, April 15.

“First win on clay this year. First win as top 100, too kilig,” Eala said in a social media post.

Now ranked No. 72 in the world, Eala shrugged off a shaky start in the match that was postponed due to inclement weather.

Eala went on to win the first set but Koevermans surged to a 3-2 lead in the second set. Koeversmans was ahead, 4-2, when a heavy downpour forced organizers to suspend the match and reschedule it the following day.

The lull worked in Eala’s favor, sneaking from behind to win the second round and secure a seat in the Round of 16.

The 19-year-old Eala will also be seeing action in the doubles event where she will be teaming up with American Katie Volynet.

It will be a case of rivals turning into teammates as Eala defeated Volynet during her sensational run in the Miami Open.(CCM)

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• #Oeiras Ladies Open
• #Portugal
• #Anouk Koevermans
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