Rusedski Backs 17th Seed Eala for Arthur Ashe After 6-2, 6-1 US Open Win

Q: Alex Eala just dominated her US Open opener, but can she overcome the opponent who previously defeated her in Strasbourg?

Yes — Eala has a strong chance to turn the result around against Oleksandra Oliynykova. The main reason is how much has changed since their only meeting in Strasbourg in May, when Oliynykova beat her 3-6, 7-5, 6-3 on clay. This rematch comes on hard court, where Eala has been playing some of the best tennis of her career. Since that loss, she has climbed to No. 18 in the world, reached the Wimbledon last 16 and won her first WTA Tour-level title in Washington. Her US Open opener also suggested she is in the right form to respond. Against Mary Stoiana, Eala won 6-2, 6-1, saved all six break points she faced and looked secure on serve — an area Greg Rusedski singled out as improving. He also praised her poise, movement, returns and groundstrokes, all of which are important in a rematch against an opponent who has already tested her. Eala herself said there were “a lot of things” she could have done better in Strasbourg and that she has been working on them over the past couple of months. That matters because the previous match was close and competitive, not one-sided, so small tactical improvements could shift the outcome. Oliynykova, ranked No. 46, is still a serious threat and already owns the head-to-head edge. But based on surface, current momentum, ranking rise and Eala’s visible development, the Filipina appears better equipped this time to overcome the opponent who beat her in Strasbourg.

3 articles · Updated · Tennishead · Sep 2

6-2, 6-1 over Mary Stoiana sent Alex Eala into the US Open second round, where she next faces Oleksandra Oliynykova on Thursday.
Greg Rusedski said Eala’s post-match press conference showed the demeanour and composure of a future champion, adding that she is handling heavier attention well this year.
Rusedski also pointed to technical progress—especially a faster, improving serve—and said that once it becomes a weapon, the Filipina could push into the top five.
The former US Open finalist argued Eala deserves an Arthur Ashe Stadium slot for her next match and said her draw could set up a fourth-round meeting with Coco Gauff.