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Posts tagged as “Sports”

More Cailin Clark Content from FIBA

March 30, 2026

Watch the evolution of Caitlin Clark from age 19 to 24. From her early days as a young scorer to becoming a complete floor general, her growth is undeniable.

These highlights show how her shooting, playmaking, and control of the game have reached another level.

At 19, she was already special… but at 24, she’s a superstar. Her range, vision, and confidence have transformed her into one of the best players in the game.

FIBA previously released a 10-mins highlight reel if Caitlin Clark.

Aryna Sabalenka wins the 2026 Miami Open

March 29, 2026

In a high-stakes showdown in Miami, Aryna Sabalenka defeated home favorite Coco Gauff 6-2, 4-6, 6-3 to claim her second consecutive Miami Open title. The victory marks a historic milestone for Sabalenka, as she becomes the first woman since Iga Swiatek in 2022 to complete the prestigious “Sunshine Double”—winning both Indian Wells and Miami in a single season.

This triumph marks Sabalenka’s 24th career WTA singles title, further cementing her dominance on hard courts. Despite Gauff’s spirited comeback in the second set, Sabalenka’s relentless power ultimately overwhelmed the young American in the decider.

Next for Sabalenka, Gauff and the rest of the tour will be clay season and games will shift to Europe mainly in Madrid and Rome and, of course, the French Open.

Game highlights;

NBA owners vote to explore Vegas, Seattle expansion bids  

March 26, 2026

Shams Charania, writing for ESPN;

The NBA’s board of governors has approved a vote for the league to explore bids and applicants for expansion teams exclusively in Las Vegas and Seattle.

All 30 owners voted in favor of exploring Las Vegas and Seattle expansion, sources told ESPN. A bidding process is expected to generate offers in the $7-10 billion range for each team, according to sources.

I’m all for expanding the NBA and bringing back the Seattle SuperSonics. As for Vegas, if approved, what would be the name of the Las Vegas Team? If the WNBA team is called the Aces, then can we call the NBA team as the Las Vegas Royals?

Alex Eala ends 2026 Miami Open run after a lopsided loss to Karolina Muchova

March 24, 2026

Alex Eala’s 2026 Miami Open campaign came to an abrupt end as the Filipina standout was overwhelmed by higher-seeded Karolína Muchová, 6-0, 6-2, in their Round of 16 clash. The lopsided defeat marked the exit for the 20-year-old Eala from the same tournament that fueled her breakthrough last year, when she stunned several Top 10 players en route to a semifinal finish.

Despite Eala’s impressive run—which included victories over Laura Siegemund and Magda Linette—she struggled to find an answer for Muchova’s versatile power game. While Eala exits the tournament with $105,720 in prize money, Muchova moves on to the quarterfinals, maintaining her dominant 2026 form.

Game highlights;

Alex Eala wins hard-fought match against Magda Linette at the 2026 Miami Open

March 22, 2026

Filipina tennis sensation Alex Eala continued her impressive run at the 2026 Miami Open, defeating Poland’s Magda Linette in a hard-fought Round of 32 clash. Eala, currently ranked world No. 29, secured a 6–3, 7–6(2) victory at the Hard Rock Stadium.

The match showcased Eala’s growing maturity; she dominated the first set with aggressive returns before weathering a resilient comeback from the veteran Linette in the second. By clinching the tiebreak, Eala leveled their career head-to-head record at 2–2. She now advances to the Round of 16 to face 13th seed Karolina Muchova.

Game highlights;

Eala Survives Epic 3-Hour Battle Against Siegemund at Miami Open

March 21, 2026

Filipino tennis star Alexandra Eala advanced to the third round of the 2026 Miami Open after coming from a set down to defeat Germany’s Laura Siegemund 6-7 (8), 6-3, 6-3 — the longest match of her career. WTA The grueling contest lasted three hours and 20 minutes, making it the joint-fifth longest tour-level match of 2026. WTA
World No. 29 Eala raced to a 3-0 lead early, but the veteran Siegemund clawed back, eventually stealing the first set in a tiebreaker after Eala squandered multiple set points.

Eala, however, regrouped to dominate the next two sets 6-3, 6-3. Her aggressive baseline play and improved physical conditioning proved decisive against the 38-year-old Siegemund. This hard-fought victory marks the longest match of Eala’s career, propelling her into the third round as she continues her impressive rise on the WTA tour.

lex Eala’s next opponent in the Round of 32 at the 2026 Miami Open is Magda Linette from Poland. Linette secured her place in the third round by defeating world No. 3 Iga Swiatek in a comeback victory (1-6, 7-5, 6-3).

Game Highlights

WNBA and the Players Association have verbally agreed to a new CBA  

March 19, 2026

Alexa Philippou, writing for ESPN;

Under the new CBA, sources told ESPN’s Shams Charania, the salary cap will start at $7 million (up from $1.5 million in 2025) with the supermax starting at $1.4 million (was $249,244 in 2025). The average salary will be around $600,000 ($120,000 in 2025), with the minimum salary surpassing $300,000 ($66,079 in 2025), sources said.

Sources said the average revenue share would be nearly 20% across the length of the deal.

The fact that the new average salary exceeds the supermax of the previous CBA proves that this deal is truly transformational.

This is what WNBA posted about the new CBA.

And from WNBPA;

FIBA released a 10-minute Caitlin Clark highlight reel

March 19, 2026

Watch the BEST of Caitlin Clark in the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup Qualifying Tournaments. From deep threes to elite playmaking, Clark controlled the game like a true floor general, showcasing her full offensive arsenal. This marks her first senior FIBA competition, and she’s already making a massive impact.

FIBA also named her as the MVP of the Women’s Basketball World Cup 2026 Qualifying Tournament.

Caitlin Clark Named MVP at FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup 2026 Qualifying Tournament

March 18, 2026

Despite starting only in just one game, WNBA Star Caitlin Clark is named as the MVP of the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup 2026 Qualifying Tournament.

via FIBA;

She posted the best average efficiency for her team (14.6), was the second-best scorer for the USA with 11.6 points (52.9 percent shooting), and recorded a tournament-best 6.4 assists.

You can visit Caitlin Clark’s FIBA Player Profile for more stats.

U.S. Women’s National Team edges pesky Spain to finish 2026 FIBA World Cup Qualifiers undefeated (84 -70)

March 18, 2026

The U.S. Women’s National Team officially punched their ticket to the 2026 FIBA World Cup with an exclamation point, grinding out a hard-fought 84–70 victory over a resilient Spain. The win over the “pesky” Spaniards in their final qualifying match, the Americans finished the tournament with a flawless 5–0 record, proving they remain the gold standard of women’s international basketball.

From the opening tip, Spain’s signature defensive pressure disrupted the U.S. rhythm, leading to eight lead changes and 3 times that both team tied. Spain was led by the interior duo of Megan Gustafson and Raquel Carrera, who each dropped 15 points to keep the contest within striking distance. However, the depth of the U.S. roster eventually wore down the Spanish frontline, building a 12 point lead by the end of the first half and a 14-point margin at the start of the 4th qtr.

The momentum shifted permanently in the third quarter thanks to the explosive play of Kahleah Copper, who finished as the game’s leading scorer with 20 points. Her ability to attack the rim blew the game open, while veteran Kelsey Plum provided much-needed stability with 18 points, including a critical 11–0 solo run that silenced the Spanish bench.

Defensively, Dearica Hamby was the anchor, contributing 14 points and a game-high three steals that fueled the American transition game. Meanwhile, Caitlin Clark—who was ultimately named Tournament MVP—controlled the tempo with seven assists and a highlight-reel block, ensuring the U.S. maintained its composure during Spain’s final fourth-quarter push.

With this undefeated cycle complete, the U.S. now shifts its focus toward the World Cup in Berlin this September. The team’s coach Nate Tibbetts’ squad heads into the main event not just as favorites, but as a battle-tested unit that has proven it can handle the heat when the stakes are highest.

Checkout the game highlights below:

U.S. Women’s National Team remains undefeated as it overpowers New Zealand in 2026 FIBA World Cup Qualifier(101 -46)

March 16, 2026

The USA Women’s National Team stayed undefeated in the 2026 FIBA World Cup Qualifiers after a commanding win over New Zealand in San Juan, Puerto Rico. The victory keeps the U.S. at the top of Group A as they prepare for the World Cup in Berlin this September.

The Americans took control early with a fast-paced offense. Star guards Caitlin Clark and Paige Bueckers led the scoring, while Angel Reese controlled the boards with dominant rebounding. New Zealand’s Ella Toefaeono and Bec Pizzey played hard in the paint, but they couldn’t overcome the United States’ aggressive defensive pressure.

Coach Kara Lawson relied on her entire roster, showing that the U.S. bench is just as strong as the starters. Although the U.S. had already earned a spot in the World Cup by winning Olympic gold in 2024, this game proved their younger players are ready for the international stage. For New Zealand, the matchup provided valuable experience against the world’s best team.

U.S. Women’s National Team will face Spain on the 17th March, for their final game for the qualifier, while New Zealand will look to bounce back against the Puerto Ricans.

U.S. Women’s National Team routs Italy’s National Team to remain undefeated at the 2026 FIBA World Cup Qualifiers in Puerto Rico

March 15, 2026

The U.S. Women’s National Team continued its dominant run at the 2026 FIBA World Cup Qualifiers in Puerto Rico, defeating Italy 93–59. Despite Italy’s undefeated start to the tournament, they were no match for the Americans’ clinical shooting and suffocating defensive pressure.

The U.S. shot a staggering 52.4% from beyond the arc, Kahleah Copper lead the Americans with 15 points and Chelsea Gray’s masterful playmaking (8 assists). Young stars Caitlin Clark and Paige Bueckers wowed the crowd in the fourth quarter, scoring 12 points each to seal the victory.

Defensively, the Americans held Italy to just 37.3% shooting, neutralizing threats like Cecilia Zandalasini. While the U.S. has already secured a World Cup berth as AmeriCup champions, this 3–0 start in San Juan, Puerto Rico, reinforces their status as global dominance in Women’s basketball. Italy (2–1) now looks to rebound against Spain to secure their spot in Berlin, while the Women’s USA Team will face New Zealand.

You can watch the game high lights below;

USA Women’s National Team Dominate Puerto Rico in 2026 FIBA World Cup Qualifiers

March 14, 2026

The USA Women’s National Team continued their dominant run in the 2026 FIBA World Cup Qualifiers, defeating host nation Puerto Rico 91–48 in San Juan. Playing before a sold-out crowd at “El Choli,” the Americans never trailed, establishing a commanding 46–19 lead by halftime.

Paige Bueckers led the offensive charge with 16 points, while Angel Reese anchored the interior, recording a double-double with 10 points and a record-breaking 13 rebounds. After a double-double game, Caitlin Clark had 8 points and 2 assists with 18:37 playing time.

Despite a gritty defensive effort from Puerto Rico, the USA’s depth and size proved overwhelming. This victory improves Team USA to 2–0 in the tournament as they solidify their path toward the 2026 World Cup.

Here are some game highlights;

Paige Bueckers was named as the Player of the Game

The American’s next game will be on the 15th March against Italy.

USA Women’s National Team dismantles Senegal in their first game of the 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup Qualifying Tournament.

March 12, 2026

The USA Women’s National Team dominated Senegal with a 110-46 victory to open the 2026 FIBA World Cup Qualifying Tournament in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Rhyne Howard led with 21 points, while Caitlin Clark impressed in her senior debut with 17 points and 12 assists, securing Kara Lawson’s first win as head coach.

This is basically the 1992 Dream Team. It’s not a matter of whether they’ll win, but by how much. Their next opponent is Puerto Rico, who will have home-court advantage, but I believe it will be much like the Senegal game. The real test will be their last three games: Italy, New Zealand, and Spain.

Here are some of the game highlights;

USA Women’s National Team: 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup Qualifying Schedule

March 8, 2026

The upcoming 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup Qualifying Tournament will be broadcast by TNT after the network acquired the exclusive U.S. English language broadcast rights to World-Class FIBA Men’s and Women’s Tournaments.

While the Americans have technically already qualified for the World Cup, these matchups against international powerhouses like Spain and Italy serve as a high-stakes proving ground for a squad looking to refine its chemistry before heading to Germany this September 2026.

Below is the full schedule

Date Opponent Time (ET) TV / Streaming
Wed, March 11 Senegal 5:00 PM TruTV / Max
Thu, March 12 Puerto Rico 8:00 PM TruTV / Max
Sat, March 14 Italy 5:00 PM TruTV / Max
Sun, March 15 New Zealand 2:00 PM TruTV / Max
Tue, March 17 Spain 5:00 PM TNT / Max

Aliyah Boston and Sonia Citron out of U.S. roster for the 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup Qualifying Tournament

March 8, 2026

Both Aliyah Boston (Indian Fever) and Sonia Citron (Washington Mystics) are out of U.S. roster for the 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup Qualifying Tournament. They will be replaced by Monique Billings (Golden State Valkyries) and Rae Burrell (Los Angeles Sparks).

Via ESPN;

The pair will replace Aliyah Boston and Sonia Citron, who are no longer able to compete in the tournament that will take place in San Juan. Boston missed the Unrivaled playoffs with what was described as a right lower extremity injury. Citron missed the end of the regular season of Unrivaled with the same injury designation as Boston.

Billings was part of the 2017 USA under-23 national team that was undefeated at the Four Nations Tournament. Burrell will be making her U.S. competitive debut.

Here’s the new 12 player roster for 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup Qualifying Tournament;

  1. Monique Billings
  2. Paige Bueckers
  3. Rae Burrell
  4. Caitlin Clark
  5. Kahleah Copper
  6. Chelsea Gray
  7. Dearica Hamby
  8. Rhyne Howard
  9. Kiki Iriafen
  10. Kelsey Plum
  11. Angel Reese
  12. Jackie Young

2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup Qualifying Tournament will be broadcast by TNT Sports and you can checkout the full schedule here.

Alex Eala Upsets Yastremska to face Coco Gauff at Indian Wells

March 8, 2026

Filipina tennis sensation Alex Eala continued her historic run at the 2026 BNP Paribas Open, securing a gritty 7-5, 4-6, 7-5 victory over Ukraine’s Dayana Yastremska. In a marathon match lasting nearly three hours, the 20-year-old Eala showcased immense mental fortitude and focus, particularly in the deciding set.

After falling behind 4-5 in the third, Eala broke back immediately, capitalizing on Yastremska’s errors with her serve. The veteran Ukrainian committed a number of costly double faults throughout the game, including one that set up Eala’s fourth match point in a tense 12th game. With this win, Eala will move on to a highly anticipated third-round rematch against world No. 4 Coco Gauff. Gauff routed Eala in the semifinals of the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships in the UAE.

Here are the match highlights between Eala and Yastremska;

Here’s Eala on her upcoming rematch with Coco Gauff;

Netflix announces Floyd Mayweather Jr. versus Manny Pacquiao rematch

February 25, 2026

Netflix has officially announced that boxing icons Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao will meet in a sanctioned professional rematch on September 19, 2026. This historic event marks the first-ever boxing match at Las Vegas’s The Sphere and will stream live globally on Netflix.

The 2015 “Fight of the Century” remains the most lucrative in history, generating a staggering 4.6 million PPV buys and over $600 million in revenue. This rematch aims to settle unfinished business as Mayweather, now 49, ends a nine-year professional retirement to defend his perfect 50-0 record. Pacquiao, 47, looks to avenge his 2015 loss after recently returning to form with a majority draw against Mario Barrios in July 2025.

While Mayweather remains sharp through high-profile exhibitions—including an April 2026 bout with Mike Tyson—this sanctioned clash carries true stakes. By removing the pay-per-view barrier, Netflix is set to shatter streaming records with this ultimate nostalgia-fueled showdown.

ICYMI: Coco Gauff routs Alex Eala to face Elina Svitolina in the Semis of Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships

February 22, 2026

Coco Gauff literally gave Alex Eala a tennis clinic.

Elina Svitolina was later defeated by Jessica Pegula, the eventual champions of the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships

via WTA;

Coco Gauff delivered a masterclass as far as bounce back performances are concerned with a dominant 6-0, 6-2 victory over Alexandra Eala on Thursday night to advance to the Dubai semifinals for the second time. She’ll face Elina Svitolina, who outlasted Antonia Ruzic in three sets to reach the last four.

Checkout the game highlights;

Elina Svitolina is the eventual champions of the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships

Alex Eala defeats Sorana Cîrstea for her 3rd straight win to advance to the Quarter finals of the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships

February 19, 2026

Filipina tennis star Alex Eala has made history again. The 20-year-old moved into the quarterfinals of the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships after defeating Romania’s Sorana Cîrstea in straight sets, 7-5, 6-4.

Eala showed great focus throughout the match. After a close first set, she took control in the second, leading 5-1. Although Cîrstea tried to come back, Eala stayed calm to finish the win. This victory follows her huge upset over world No. 8 Jasmine Paolini. Eala will now face world No. 4 Coco Gauff in the next round.

Game Highlights;

Post game interview;

Alex Eala upsets Jasmine Paolini to secure third Top 10 Scalp to Reach Dubai Round of 16

February 18, 2026

Filipina tennis sensation Alexandra “Alex” Eala delivered thrilling performance at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships on Tuesday, upsetting World No. 8 and former champion Jasmine Paolini in straight sets, 6-1, 7-6(5).

Dominating the first set, Eala showed remarkable poise under the lights. Despite a spirited comeback from Paolini in the second, the 20-year-old Filipina held her nerve in a high-quality tiebreak to secure her third career victory over a Top 10 opponent.

Eala now advances to the Round of 16, where she will face Romania’s Sorana Cirstea on Wednesday, February 18.

Here’s the highlights of the match;

Here’s what Alex said when asked on she will do to prepare for her next match;

USA Basketball Announces Official Roster for 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup Qualifying Tournament this March in Puerto Rico

February 13, 2026

USA Basketball has officially announced the roster for 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup Qualifying Tournament which will be held in Puerto Rico, from March 11-17, 2026.

Here’s the list of the 12 player roster;

  1. Aliyah Boston
  2. Paige Bueckers
  3. Sonia Citron
  4. Caitlin Clark
  5. Kahleah Copper
  6. Chelsea Gray
  7. Dearica Hamby
  8. Rhyne Howard
  9. Kiki Iriafen
  10. Kelsey Plum
  11. Angel Reese
  12. Jackie Young

The roster is a mix of Olympic champions and rising stars, led by 2024 gold medalists Kahleah Copper, Chelsea Gray, Kelsey Plum, and Jackie Young, alongside 3×3 bronze winners Dearica Hamby and Rhyne Howard. While veteran Aliyah Boston makes her anticipated return, the roster also features the official senior national team debuts of Paige Bueckers, Sonia Citron, Caitlin Clark, Kiki Iriafen, and Angel Reese.

Three-time Olympic and World champion Breanna Stewart will also join the team in Miami for a pre-competition training camp, set for March 7-8.

The coaching staff will be lead by 2025-28 USA Basketball Women’s National Team head coach Kara Lawson (Duke University) with assistant coaches Natalie Nakase (Golden State Valkyries), Nate Tibbetts (Phoenix Mercury) and Stephanie White (Indiana Fever). The 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup Qualifying Tournament in San Juan, Puerto Rico, from March 11-17, 2026.

The U.S. Women’s team play games against Senegal, Puerto Rico, Italy, New Zealand, and Spain.

Game Schedule

  • March 11: vs. Senegal
  • March 12: vs. Puerto Rico
  • March 14: vs. Italy
  • March 15: vs. New Zealand
  • March 17: vs. Spain

Warriors lost to Lakers lead by Lebron James (105 – 99)

February 8, 2026

The LA Lakers just gave the Warriors their 4th lost in 6 games. Lebron James lead the Lakers with 20 points, 7 rebounds and 10 assists, followed by Rui Hachimura and Austin Reaves, who added 18 points and 16 points, respectively. This will be Lakers 3rd straight win

The Warriors was without their leading scorer Steph Curry who was sidelined with a “right knee issue,” while the Lakers are without Deandre Ayton (knee) and Luka Doncic (mild hamstring strain).

LA will host the OKC while the Warriors be at the Bay against the Memphis Grizzlies, both games will be this Tuesday evening.

Fever’s Caitlin Clark Joins NBC’s “Basketball Night in America”

January 28, 2026

Indiana Fever phenom Caitlin Clark is taking her “logo threes” energy to the broadcast booth. NBC announced that Clark will join the Basketball Night in America team as a special contributor for two (2) NBA games; February 1st and March 29th, at the Madison Square Garden, New York City.

  • February 1 Game: Los Angeles Lakers vs. New York Knicks
  • March 29 Game: New York Knicks vs. Oklahoma City Thunder

Clark will provide pregame analysis alongside host Maria Taylor and a legendary trio: Carmelo Anthony, Vince Carter, and Tracy McGrady.

WNBA Releases Season 30 Schedule with May 8 Tip-Off

January 27, 2026

The WNBA officially released its 2026 regular-season schedule last January 21st, marking a historic 30th-anniversary milestone for the league. Tipping off on Friday, May 8th, the season expands to 15 franchises with the highly anticipated debuts of the Toronto Tempo—Canada’s first WNBA team—and the return of Portland Fire.

Opening night will feature the Toronto Tempo hosting the Washington Mystics, while May 9 sees the Portland Fire host the Chicago Sky. That same Saturday, fans will witness a “clash of icons” as Caitlin Clark’s Indiana Fever face Paige Bueckers and the Dallas Wings. To honor the league’s roots, a special Anniversary Game is set for June 21, featuring a rematch of the 1997 inaugural game between the Los Angeles Sparks and the New York Liberty.

The 44-game slate includes a mid-season pause from August 31 to September 16 for the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup in Germany. All-Star Weekend will be in Chicago on July 24–25. Even though the league released the schedule, both the league and the players’ union remain in active CBA negotiations, with fans, including me, hopeful for a resolution before the May 8 tip-off. The regular season concludes September 24, leading directly into the playoffs.

Here are key dates to remember;

Event Date
WNBA Draft April 13, 2026
Season Tip-Off May 8, 2026
Commissioner’s Cup June 1 – June 17 (Finals June 30)
All-Star Weekend July 24 – 25 (Hosted by the Chicago Sky)
Regular Season Ends September 24, 2026
Playoffs Begin September 27, 2026

For Fever fans you can checkout their schedule below;

Timberwolves avenge their loss by beating the Warriors with a 25-point win (108 – 83)

January 27, 2026

In a depleted-roster clash, the Minnesota Timberwolves crushed the Golden State Warriors 108-83 on Monday night. Snapping a five-game losing streak, Minnesota capitalized on the absence of Warriors stars Stephen Curry (knee) and Draymond Green (back), while the Wolves are without their superstar Anthony Edwards to rest an recurring right foot injury.

Julius Randle lead Minnesota a team-high 18 points and 7 rebounds, while Rudy Gobert anchored the win with 15 points and 17 rebounds. Golden State struggled offensively, shooting a season-low 23% (9-of-39) from beyond the arc, with Quinten Post leading them with 13 points.

The Golden State will visit Utah, while Timberwolves will face the Mavericks in Dallas, both games will be this Wednesday evening.

Warriors defeats Timberwolves and Curry move pass Havlicek for No. 20 in All-time Scoring (111 – 85)

January 26, 2026

The Golden State Warriors cruised to a 111-85 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves, headlined by Stephen Curry making history. With 26 points and 7 assists, Curry officially passed John Havlicek for No. 20 on the NBA’s all-time scoring list, also moving into a tie with Paul Pierce for 19th with 2,6397 points.

Despite battling knee soreness, Curry led a defensive masterclass featuring a season-high 20 team steals. Moses Moody added 19 points as the Warriors broke the game open with a 38-17 third-quarter surge. While Anthony Edwards scored 32 for Minnesota, the Timberwolves dropped their fifth straight in a somber Minneapolis atmosphere.

Watch all Steph Curry’s high lights of the game here;

Alexandra “Alex” Eala stuns Donna Vekic in a comeback win at the ASB Classic in Auckland

January 7, 2026

Women’s Tennis Rising star Alexandra Eala stunned veteran Donna Vekic at the ASB Classic in a performance that felt more like a high-stakes football match than a tennis tournament. Supported by a roaring “army” of Filipino fans in Auckland, the world No. 53 triumphed 4-6, 6-4, 6-4 in an enthralling contest that lasted for two hours and 40 minutes.

The match peaked in the third set. After Eala failed to serve out the match at 5-3, she displayed remarkable resilience, attacking Vekic’s returns to break back immediately and secure the victory. Eala, who is currently ranked at No. 50, a career-high, late last year, credited the electric “homec crowd” atmosphere for helping her navigate the tension.

Eala now advances to the Round of 16, where she is scheduled to face another Croatian, Petra Marcinko, this Thursday, January 8. With her momentum building and a loyal global following behind her, the 20-year-old is proving to be a major force in the 2026 season.

Checkout the game highlights below;