FOLLOWING a historic opening-round victory, Filipino tennis star Alex Eala tries to continue her captivating run at the US Open as she tries to repeat against Spain’s Cristina Bucsa in a highly anticipated second-round encounter on Wednesday at Flushing Meadows in New York.
Gametime has yet to be released.
The two players’ only prior encounter was four years ago in the Round of 16 at the 2021 W25 Grenoble tournament in France, where a then 15-year-old Eala prevailed in a tight three-set battle, 2-6, 6-3, 7-6(10-8).
While Eala holds the head-to-head advantage, both players have evolved significantly since that match.
“I think the key for my upcoming match is just to come in with the same mentality, same fight,” said the 20-year-old Eala.
The Filipina star, who officially entered the tournament ranked World No. 75 but has seen her live ranking ascend to 66th after her first-round triumph, made history on Monday by becoming the first Philippine player in the to win a main draw singles match at a Grand Slam in the Open era.
Her thrilling comeback victory over 14th seed Clara Tauson of Denmark, 6-3, 2-6, 7-6(13-11), showcased her mental fortitude and rapidly developing game.
The win caps off a breakthrough 2025 season for Eala, highlighted by a semifinal appearance at the Miami Open where she defeated multiple Grand Slam champions, including former World No. 1 Iga Swiatek, and a maiden WTA final at Eastbourne.
Across the net will be the experienced Bucsa, representing Spain but born in 1998 in Moldova.
As of August 2025, Bucsa is ranked World No. 93, though she achieved a career-high singles ranking of No. 56 in January 2024.
The 27-year-old Bucsa plays right-handed with a two-handed backhand.
Rising to 81st in live rankings after her dominant first-round win, Bucsa efficiently dispatched American Claire Liu, 6-2, 6-1.
The Spanish Olympian has notable achievements, including a bronze medal in women’s doubles at the 2024 Paris Olympics and her first WTA doubles titles, which include a prestigious WTA 1000 crown in Madrid.
In singles, she made her Grand Slam breakthrough at the 2023 Australian Open, advancing to the third round.
