As the 2025 season enters its third month, Paula Badosa has unexpectedly withdrew from the Miami Open tournament for a third straight time, marking her latest withdrawal from this esteemed competition. Badosa had initially promised her fans of an early return from injury following an exit in Merida; unfortunately however she failed to fully recuperate before facing Filippina sensation Alexandra Eala in Round 16 competition due to not fully recovering in time.
Badosa has previously opened up about her battle against back pain, needing cortisone injections to manage it and continue playing tennis professionally. Unfortunately, even with treatment she experienced severe discomfort during her match against Clara Tauson in Miami; although Badosa ultimately prevailed but at considerable expense as the pain proved severe during that victory.
Eala, on the other hand, has been making headlines after defeating Grand Slam champions Jelena Ostapenko and Madison Keys, paving her way into the quarterfinals without playing the scheduled match against Badosa. At just 19 years old, Eala has become a national hero in the Philippines, marking significant milestones including her first win on the WTA Tour and a junior Grand Slam title at the US Open. Her recent triumph over Keys also placed her as the first Filipino player since 1975 to claim a top 10 win on the WTA Tour.
Eala expressed both shock and pride in her achievement and emphasized her motivation to achieve more remarkable feats in the future. She hinted at her aspirations for further success on the WTA Tour, including winning Grand Slams and improving her rankings.
Eala Draws Praise from Rafael Nadal
Eala trained at the Rafa Nadal Academy in Monaco since she was young, crediting it and her family with her success. Rafael Nadal praised Eala for her exceptional performances at Miami and particularly noted her wins against top players; Eala responded by thanking Nadal for being her idol as well as offering opportunities through his academy.
Eala will face world number 2, Iga Swiatek in her quarterfinal match and is looking forward to an intense yet thrilling opportunity.