Alex Eala plays American Mary Stoiana in US Open first round

Alexandra Eala of the Philippines competes against Iva Jovic of the United States during the stars of the open at Fan Week as part of the 2026 US Open at USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center on August 27, 2026 in New York City. Caleb Bowlin/Getty Images/AFP

MANILA, Philippines–Alex Eala takes on home bet Mary Stoiana in the first round of the US Open singles on Monday (Manila time) in Queens, New York.

The Filipino World No. 18 Eala is the clear favorite against the 122nd-ranked Stoiana, who is making her main draw debut after winning three qualifying matches.

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Eala beat Stoiana, once the top collegiate player in the US starring for Texas A&M University, in their first encounter two years ago in an ITFW100 tournament in Pennsylvania.

This year’s US Open has been eventful for tennis’ hottest draw.

Alexandra Eala of the Philippines speaks during Media Day ahead of the US Open at USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center on August 28, 2026 in New York City. Caleb Bowlin/Getty Images/AFP

Aside from her keenly awaited singles campaign, Eala was also handpicked to play in the “Stars of the Open” exhibition against her close friend and American star Iva Jovic, who won, 6-3.

Eala also competed with Canadian World No. 4 Felix Auger-Aliassime in a star-studded mixed doubles event. She then held a meet-and-greet and signature merchandise launch at a Nike store in New York City.

Tournament organizers have yet to release the official court assignment for Eala’s match against Stoiana.

What’s almost certain, however, is that tickets, priced at an all-time high, are expected to sell out as “Eala-mania” takes over Flushing Meadows.