Alex Eala braces for Linda Noskova challenge in Berlin Open semis

Philippines’ Alexandra Eala serves the ball to Ukraine’s Elina Svitolina during the women’s singles quarter-final match at the WTA500 Berlin Tennis Open tournament in Berlin on June 19, 2026. (Photo by Tobias SCHWARZ / AFP)

MANILA, Philippines–Alex Eala looks to turn the tables on Linda Noskova in their semifinal showdown at the 2026 Berlin Open on Saturday.

Their match is scheduled for 8 p.m. (Manila time) at Steffi Graf Stadium.

The last time Eala faced Noskova, she absorbed a 6-2, 6-0 loss on the hard courts of Indian Wells last March.

Eala, who is enjoying a phenomenal grass-court campaign, is well aware of the challenge posed by the world No. 13 from Czechia.

“She’s a big hitter, and she’s young, but she has a lot of experience, and she’s very powerful,” Eala said of Noskova, who beat Paula Badosa to advance to the semifinals.

“My last match with her proved to be very difficult for me. So, coming into the semifinals, I hope to prepare and make some improvements and show what I’ve got.”

Eala advanced to the Final Four after beating world No. 8 Elina Svitolina in the quarterfinals and world No. 2 Elena Rybakina in the Round of 16.

Eala looks to extend her run against higher-ranked opponents, having also beaten Queen’s Club champion Donna Vekić in her opening match in Berlin.

The Filipino world No. 35 is gearing up for Wimbledon, which begins later this month.