Alex Eala explains why Miami Open expectations don’t affect her
Alexandra Eala kicked off her Miami Open with a gritty win, rallying from a set down to beat Laura Siegemund. The match wasn’t without its frustrations.
Photo by Robert Prange/Getty Images Alexandra Eala kicked off her Miami Open with a gritty win, rallying from a set down to beat Laura Siegemund. The match wasn’t without its frustrations. Siegemund, known for taking her time between points, drew some criticism from Eala over the pace of play.
Despite the slow pace and the drama that followed, Eala kept her composure and battled back to secure her spot in round three. Eala is defending semi-final points from last year’s breakout run but has made it clear she isn’t feeling any extra pressure this time around. Eala riding strong form into Miami: ‘The truth is I’ve been working really hard’ Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images Eala has been in strong form throughout 2026, climbing as high as World No.
29 during the season. But the points she earned from last year’s tournament have since dropped off, causing her to slip back to World No. 48.
Even with the ranking shift, Eala isn’t worried about matching last year’s run in Miami. In an interview with the WTA Tour, she said: “Opinions or expectations can change. That is not in your control.