It looks like Iga Swiatek won’t have it easy when she kicks off her campaign at the Mutua Madrid Open 2025. The world number one is set to face a familiar and challenging opponent in the opening round: Alexandra Eala, the rising star from the Philippines.
Swiatek fans may remember that name all too well. Just two months ago, Eala shocked the tennis world by defeating Swiatek in Miami — a major milestone for the 19-year-old and a tough loss for the Polish powerhouse.
Now, fate has brought them face-to-face once again, this time on the clay courts of Madrid. Eala booked her spot in the main draw by cruising past Viktoriya Tomova with a confident 6-3, 6-2 win in the qualifiers, setting up what promises to be a thrilling first-round clash.
It’s not the draw Swiatek would’ve hoped for, especially considering the pressure that comes with being the top seed and a favorite on clay. But as always, she’ll be expected to bring her trademark intensity and tactical brilliance to the court.
All eyes will be on this matchup — a rematch filled with high stakes, revenge narratives, and a chance for both players to make an early statement in Madrid.
Stay tuned — this one’s going to be fire.