Alex Eala bows out early in French Open main draw debut

Metro Manila, Philippines - Alex Eala's comeback attempt fell short in the 2025 French Open after bowing to fellow first-timer Emiliana Arango of Colombia, 0-6, 6-2, 3-6, on Sunday in the women's singles opening round.

The 20-year-old Eala made history as the first Filipino to play in a singles main draw of a grand slam event in the Open era.

Eala, ranked 69th in the world, was overwhelmed by Arango's fine form as the South American dominated the first set–which just lasted for 30 minutes.

Eala bounced back in the second set as the Filipino ace went up, 3-1, only for her momentum to be interrupted by a lengthy weather delay.

Just when Eala seemed to find her rhythm, Arango showed she was more prepared as Eala played catch up after trailing early in the third set.

Eala has struggled to play on a consistent elite level since her dream run in the Miami Open two months ago. She could not replicate that form in the clay court tournaments she joined leading up to Roland Garros - Madrid Open (Round of 64), Italian Open (Round of 128), and Oeiras Ladies Open (Round of 16).

Eala will return to action in the women's doubles with partner Renata Zarazua of Mexico on May 28. They will be coming as the clear underdogs against Marta Kostyuk of Ukraine and Elena-Gabriela Ruse of Romania.