MANILA, Philippines — Filipino tennis player Alex Eala will face Alina Charaeva in the Round of 16 of the WTA 125 Birmingham Open on Thursday as she continues her grass-court season.
Eala, the tournament’s top seed and world No. 37, advanced after defeating Priscilla Hon, 6-0, 6-2, in the first round.
Eala said she was satisfied with her performance in her grass-court debut this season. “It was a good performance, especially it being my first match on grass, so I’m really happy… This is a good win for me,” she said.
Charaeva advanced to the Round of 16 after eliminating defending champion Greet Minnen in the opening round.
Eala holds a 1-0 head-to-head record against Charaeva after defeating her, 6-1, 6-2, at the Philippine Women’s Open in January.
The Birmingham Open is part of Eala’s buildup to Wimbledon, which begins on June 29.