Alex Eala beats Antonia Ruzic, reaches Hong Kong Tennis Open semis - GMA Network

Alexandra “Alex” Eala defeated Antonia Ruzic, 7-6(7), 7-5, in the quarterfinals of the Hong Kong Tennis Open to advance to the semifinals.

Eala held a 3-2 lead in the opening set before Ruzic won the next two games to take the advantage. The Filipina fought back to level the set, but Ruzic claimed another game to move within one of taking the set.

Eala refused to back down, winning the next game to force a 6-6 deadlock and send the set into a tiebreak.

Eala dominated the early exchanges, racing to a 5-0 lead before Ruzic mounted a comeback by claiming four consecutive points. The two then traded points, with Ruzic eventually taking a 7-6 lead. However, Eala won the next three points to clinch the opening set.

In the second set, Eala took a 2-1 lead before Ruzic leveled the score. The Filipina then won the next two games to establish a 4-2 advantage, but Ruzic managed to claim another game before rain suspended play during the eighth game.

Upon resumption, Ruzic held on and eventually claimed a 5-4 lead. However, Eala fought back and tied the set anew before claiming the next two to claim the victory.

"It was a rollercoaster, for sure, and an incredible battle," Eala said about her match against Ruzic.

"I don't know what inspired me or kept me to continue digging deeper, but Antonia played a really amazing match, and I'm blessed to be able to play another round here."

Eala will next face Greece’s Maria Sakkari for a spot in the final.