Alexandra Eala has broken her silence after losing a thriller to Victoria Mboko at the Hong Kong Open.
Eala lost five games in a row against Mboko to suffer an unfortunate defeat in a three-set match in Hong Kong.
The loss sees the end of the rising star’s season, which has seen her achieve some incredible things across 2025, including a first WTA final and her extraordinary run to the Miami Open semi-finals.
Eala has taken to social media to send a message to fans, reflecting upon her loss as well as her breakout season in 2025.
Alexandra Eala reflects on ‘special’ match with Victoria Mboko
Despite the unfortunate nature of the defeat in Hong Kong, Eala looked back fondly on her time at the tournament.
“What a match to end the season,” the Filipino wrote on Instagram. “I enjoyed every minute I spent on court.”
“Everything from the fight to the fans was something to remember, and will hold a special place in my memories,” she added. “Thank you Hong Kong.”
Eala defeated Katie Boulter in the first round of Hong Kong before meeting Mboko in the second round of the 250 tournament.
Despite the early exit at the tournament, Eala has more than proved that she belongs in the upper echelons of the WTA Tour.
Alexandra Eala was ‘overwhelmed’ by the Victoria Mboko match
Eala might not have come out on top against Mboko, but it didn’t stop the rising star from applauding her own efforts in Hong Kong.
“I am so, so proud,” said Eala during her Hong Kong Open press conference after the clash with Mboko.
“It just adds sentimental value as it’s my last match of the season, and now I think just after the match, especially having put up such a good performance, I was just overwhelmed with emotions, happiness and gratitude for everything that has happened to me this year.”
Eala is expected to return at the start of 2026, where she will make her long-awaited debut in the Australian Open main draw.
Alexandra Eala reaches new landmark after Hong Kong
Eala’s final tournament of the year saw her reach a new landmark that will certainly end her season on a high.
The Filipino is currently sitting at World No. 50 on the WTA Tour rankings, which is a career-high for the 20-year-old.
The star will likely end her first season on the WTA Tour nestled inside the top 50, which is an impressive achievement for the rising star.
Eala’s next step in 2026 will be to try and crack the top 32 and ensure seeded entry into Grand Slams in the future.
