Alex Eala's promising run at the Miami Open came to an abrupt halt as she struggled in the final match of qualifiers against Emiliana Arango, falling 6-2, 5-7, 1-6 on Monday (Tuesday, Manila time).
Eala suffers cramps
Eala, who clinched her first victory against a Top 100 WTA opponent earlier in the tournament, battled cramps late in the match against Arango, hindering her performance on the court.
After a grueling three-set encounter, Eala had to be assisted off the court.
Eala remains optimistic
Taking to social media after the match, the 18-year-old expressed her disappointment at the outcome but remained optimistic about her future endeavors.
"I am disheartened, to say the least, that I had to finish the match being wheeled off the court. Nevertheless, I take pride in the fact that I fought until the end. I leave here on a positive note and will be back at 100 percent in a few days," Eala wrote.
She added, "I definitely still have so much more to give and will be back stronger and more experienced!"
Despite falling short of the main draw, Eala's Miami journey was highlighted by her impressive qualifying victory over former World No. 5 Sara Errani. Currently ranked 97th, Errani was also a finalist at the 2012 French Open.
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