The focus was on 45-year-old Venus Williams when the ASB Classic commenced. Now it’s on the kids.
20-year-old Alexandra Eala and 18-year-old Iva Jovic each powered into the semis on their Auckland debuts.
Eala took out veteran Magda Linette, 6-3, 6-2, to set a semifinal with China’s Wang Xinyu.
Jovic, a Southern California native, defeated Sofia Costoulas of Belgium, 7-6(3), 6-4.
Eala won for the first time in three tries against Linette, earning five breaks of serve to just two for the Pole. Eala created 14 break opportunities in the contest.
“I do what I can and if I see and opening, I think it’s important I go for it,” she said. “Magda is such an experienced player and I had difficulties playing against her before, so I’m just happy to see my level increase and improve.”
Eala cracked many milestones in 2025, including becoming the first Filipina to ever reach a WTA final and hold a Top-50 ranking. Now, ranked 53, she’s two wins from going a step further and making history for your country.
35th-ranked Jovic was ranked 191 at the start of last season but had a breakout year that included her maiden title in Guadalajara.
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