Alex Eala, still fresh from winning her third professional title, set her championship aspirations in motion anew after scoring a 6-3, 7-6 (10-8) win over Jessica Fallia of the United States yesterday in the W25 Madrid women's tournament at the Ciudad Raqueta.

Just days after topping the W25 Yecla women's singles tournament, the 18-year-old Eala is right on track in her quest to upgrade her ranking in the Women's Tennis Association.

The No. 266-rated Eala needed two hours and 41 minutes to eliminate her foe and move onto the Round of 16.

"First title of the year!! Many lessons and positive takeaways from this week. More to come," Eala said.

Up next for Eala is American entry Alana Smith in the round of 16.

Smith, 23, swept hometown bet Maria de la Paz Antonio, 6-0, 6-0, in a separate match to set up a showdown with Eala, who had a breakout 2022 after winning the US Open juniors plum.

Eala is also using her appearances in Europe as part of her preparation for the Hangzhou Asian Games in September-October.