Graphics by John Carl Acosta

Alexandra Eala’s US Open run ended after Iva Jovic edged the Filipina, 7–5, 3–6, 7–5, in a grueling third-round battle at Arthur Ashe Stadium in New York, United States, Saturday, September 5.

The No. 17 seed Eala fought the No. 14 seed Jovic in a match between two young stars and close friends.

Jovic struck first by racing to a 4–1 lead in the opening set before Eala fought back to level the score at 5–5.

The American answered by breaking Eala again before serving out the set, 7–5, despite Eala earning 10 break-point chances.

Eala responded in the second set by breaking Jovic three times and forcing the match into a decider with a 6–3 win.

The Filipina then carried the momentum into the final set, building a 4–2, 30–Love advantage as her groundstrokes kept Jovic under pressure.

Jovic refused to fade, winning five of the final six games to regain control of the match.

Eala fought to stay in the contest, but Jovic converted her second match point to seal the 7–5 third-set victory after more than three hours.

The match featured 17 service breaks as both players repeatedly attacked with aggressive groundstrokes throughout the marathon.

Jovic finished with 44 winners and 27 unforced errors, while Eala recorded 34 winners and 33 unforced errors.

The defeat ended Eala’s campaign in her second US Open main-draw appearance after she reached the third round with straight-set victories in her opening two matches.

Jovic improved to 3–0 against Eala and advanced to the fourth round, where she will face No. 4 seed Coco Gauff on Monday.

Article by Mary Fiona Rubenecia