Alex Eala cracks top 100, nets biggest purse yet in Miami Open dream run

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Alex Eala crashes the WTA top 100 for the first time as she's also set to rake in her biggest prize money yet from a single tournament after advancing to the Miami Open semifinals

MANILA, Philippines – From a hefty payday to a new career-high world ranking, Alex Eala will reap the rewards of her hard work.

Eala cracked the top 100 of the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) for the first time, and she’s also poised to claim her biggest purse yet as she advanced to the semifinals of the Miami Open following a string of stunning wins over three Grand Slam champions.

Ranked No. 140 in the world, the Filipina teen has risen to No. 75 in the live WTA rankings after her shocking 6-2, 7-5 dismantling of former world No. 1 and current No. 2 Iga Swiatek, who has won five Grand Slam crowns.

It marked the third straight time Eala beat a top 25 opponent as she also toppled No. 5 Madison Keys, who ruled the 2025 Australian Open in January, and No. 25 Jelena Ostapenko, who captured the 2017 French Open title.

By climbing to No. 75, Eala will likely gain direct entry to three other Grand Slam events of the year, with the French Open coming up in May.

The 19-year-old is set to rake in her biggest prize money from a single tournament as well, as she is guaranteed at least $332,160 (over P19 million) after earning a spot in the semifinals.

Prior to her unlikely tournament run, Eala had a total career earning of $498,901 (over P28 million), according to the WTA.

Eala can earn more, with the finalist receiving $597,890 (over P34 million) and the champion getting $1,124,380 (over P64 million).

Standing in her way is world No. 4 Jessica Pegula of the United States as they battle for a finals berth on Thursday, March 27 (Friday, March 28, 8:30 am, Manila time). – Rappler.com