MANILA — Alex Eala, the promising young Filipina, advanced to the Round of 16 at Indian Wells on Monday (Manila time) after Coco Gauff, ranked fourth in the world, retired due to an arm injury during their third-round match.
Leading 6-2, 2-0, Eala watched as Gauff struggled through treatment on her left arm before eventually conceding.
“I wish the outcome could have been different,” Eala said, expressing empathy for her rival. “Still, it’s a huge milestone for me to compete on Stadium One against someone of Coco’s caliber.”
Gauff’s team attended to her shoulder and forearm after she was broken in the opening set, but she ultimately left the court following the second set’s early game loss.
Eala will next take on Linda Noskova of the Czech Republic with a chance to reach the quarterfinals.
elamigo/
