Alex Eala’s 6-1, 7-6 upset win over world No. 8 Jasmine Paolini in the Round of 32 of the Dubai Tennis Championships was more than just a victory but a declaration that she is a force to be reckoned with.

At just 20 years old, she is already projected to reach a new career-best No. 38 according to the live Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) rankings.

She is no longer merely a promising junior champion but a legitimate contender willing to trade blows with the best of the best.

Despite the gap between her and Paolini, the world No. 47 netter refused to bow down as she drew energy from the Filipino crowd in attendance at the Aviation Club Tennis Centre in the United Arab Emirates.

“Each match is a challenge and everybody at this stage really wants to continue. I’m not an exception to that either,” Eala said.

“It was an incredible experience,” the 20-year-old said of the match. “The mix of (an) amazing atmosphere, being in such a beautiful court as well as such high competition made this match super special for me.”

The energy was palpable with every cheer echoing across the court.

For a young Filipina competing thousands of miles from home, the scene could have been overwhelming.

Instead, it became fuel.

“The stadium was really full. I looked up and the Filipinos were there. It’s really such a blessing to be able to play in those sorts of atmospheres,” Eala said.

“I am really privileged and thankful that I can introduce women’s tennis to a new demographic.”

With tennis’ top two stars in Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus and Iga Swiatek of Poland, withdrawing from the prestigious Women’s Tennis Association 1000 tournament, Eala has a solid chance of winning it all.

But first, Eala has to take down Sorana Cirstea of Romania in the Round of 16, which is happening at press time.

The 35-year-old Cirstea actually defeated Eala last year as she pulled of a 6-3, 6-7, 6-4 victory in the Round of 64 at the Madrid Open.

Cirstea, rated No. 32, is also determined to win after announcing that she will retire at the end of the 2026 season.