MANILA, Philippines — Polish netter Magda Linette gave props to Filipino tennis ace Alex Eala ahead of their round of 32 clash at the Miami Open early Sunday in Manila.
Having faced Eala thrice already and winning two against the world No. 29, world No. 50 Linette said Eala has grown leaps and bounds.
"I mean she improved so much," said Linette of Eala following her round of 64 upset of fellow Polish netter and world No. 3 Iga Swiatek on Friday.
"I played her at the beginning of the year, so I know what I'm up against and I will just try to do my best again and I know it's going to be a tough match.
"I have so much respect for her game so I'm ready. I'm playing well and I'm healthy so anything can happen."
Linette first took on Eala in February 2024, winning their Abu Dhabi Open round of 32 clash, 7-6(4), 6-1.
The 34-year-old repeated over the 20-year-old in June 2025, emerging on top with a 6-4, 6-3 win in their Nottingham Open round of 32 encounter.
Eala finally defeated Linette last January in their ASB Classic quarterfinals match, 6-3, 6-2.