Raducanu Advances to Miami Open Last 16 as Eala Stuns Keys
Emma Raducanu advanced to the Miami Open last 16 after McCartney Kessler retired due to injury. Filipina rising star Alexandra Eala stunned Madison Keys in straight sets, making history for Philippine tennis. Iga Swiatek continued her dominance, securing her 25th consecutive WTA 1000 last-16 appearance and setting up a match against Elina Svitolina.
Raducanu Advances to Miami Open Last 16 as Eala Stuns Keys
Emma Raducanu secured a spot in the last 16 of the Miami Open after her opponent, McCartney Kessler, retired early in the second set due to injury. The British star dominated the first set, winning 6-1 in just 30 minutes, before taking a 3-0 lead in the second when Kessler, struggling with a back issue, withdrew.
“It’s tough to stay focused when your opponent is injured, but I wish her a speedy recovery,” Raducanu told Sky Sports. “I’m happy with how I played, especially my return game.”
The 22-year-old will next face either Amanda Anisimova or Russian teenager Mirra Andreeva.
Eala Upsets Madison Keys in Straight Sets
In a major upset, Filipina wildcard Alexandra Eala eliminated world No. 5 and Australian Open champion Madison Keys with a commanding 6-4, 6-2 victory. The 19-year-old, ranked 140th, made history as the first woman from the Philippines to defeat a top-10 player since the Open Era began in 1975.
Eala, who also ousted 2017 French Open champion Jelena Ostapenko earlier in the tournament, trains at the Rafael Nadal Academy. “I hope this inspires more Filipinos to pursue tennis,” she said.
Next, she will take on Spain’s Paula Badosa, who defeated Clara Tauson 6-3, 7-6 (7-3).
Swiatek Extends WTA 1000 Streak
Former Miami Open champion and second seed Iga Swiatek advanced with a 7-6 (7-2), 6-1 victory over Elise Mertens. This marks her 25th consecutive WTA 1000 tournament reaching at least the last 16, a streak dating back to 2021.
The Polish star will face Elina Svitolina in the next round after the Ukrainian secured a 6-2, 3-6, 6-2 win over Karolina Muchova.