Double Bangkok Southeast Asian Games bronze medalist Stefi Aludo put herself a win short of joining Alex Eala in the Philippine Women’s Open after overpowering Angeline Alcala, 6-1, 6-0, in the first qualifying round Saturday at the Rizal Memorial Tennis Center.
Aludo got the job done swiftly in 61 minutes to inch closer to a slot in the Women’s Tennis Association 125 netfest that also will feature Tenny Madis and Kaye Ann Emana.
The 17-year-old netter from Agusan del Sur said she remained focused on her campaign.
“I just did my best to condition myself. My mindset entering the match was to have no hesitations on my strokes,” Aludo said.
“I will apply all the things I learned at practice. I just focused on having a good game despite the huge crowd.”
Tied at 1-1 in the first set, Aludo held her serve as she won the next five games.
She will now turn her attention to world No. 298 Sakura Hosogi of Japan in the second qualifying round on Sunday at the same venue that was spruced up by the Philippine Sports Commission.
Meanwhile, Louraine Jallorina lost to Peangtarn Plipuech of Thailand, 0-6, 1-6, in a separate qualifying match.