Swiatek Survives Eala Scare at Madrid Open

World No. 2 Iga Swiatek, the defending Madrid champion and four-time French Open winner, came back from a set down to defeat rising Filipina star Alexandra Eala 4-6, 6-4, 6-2 in the second round of the 2025 Madrid Open. Their rematch followed Eala's upset win over Swiatek at last month's Miami Open, but Swiatek used her clay-court expertise and tactical changes to secure the victory after a shaky start. Eala, who recently broke into the WTA top 100, impressed by taking the first set and leading early in the second. Swiatek cited the unique speed of Madrid's clay and her need to balance topspin with flatter shots as crucial to her comeback. Despite not winning a tournament yet this season, Swiatek remains a favorite on clay as she advances to face Linda Noskova next. Eala's strong performance further highlights her emergence as a promising talent on the WTA Tour.