Eala makes history with maiden WTA title as Fritz wins Washington crown

WASHINGTON: Alexandra Eala became the first player from the Philippines to win a WTA Tour singles title after defeating top seed Jessica Pegula in the rain-delayed Washington Open final on Monday, while Taylor Fritz claimed the men’s title for his first trophy of the season.

The 21-year-old Eala rallied from a set down to beat world number three Pegula 4-6 6-4 6-0 after the final resumed with the Filipina leading 2-1 in the second set following Sunday’s rain interruption.

“I feel so much love. My first chance at a title, knowing it won’t be the last, and already having achieved this milestone for my career,” Eala said after the victory. “Whatever happened after this match would have already been a win for me.”

Pegula, who was bidding for a third Washington title after triumphs in 2019 and 2021, was unable to halt Eala’s momentum as the Filipina won 10 of the final 13 games with aggressive baseline play and a powerful left-handed serve.

“I want to congratulate Alex on an amazing tournament,” Pegula said. “To see how far you’ve come over the last couple of years is amazing.”

The victory extended Eala’s winning streak against top-10 opponents to five matches, following victories over Elena Rybakina, Elina Svitolina twice and Iga Swiatek, and is set to lift her to a career-high world ranking of 20.

In the men’s final, third seed Taylor Fritz edged Spanish teenager Rafa Jodar 7-6(2) 6-4 to capture his first ATP title of the 2026 season.