BBC Wimbledon host Clare Balding was left in 'major shock' on day six of the championships as defending champion Iga Świątek was defeated by Alexandra Eala in the third round on Centre Court. The match, which ended 7-6 (11-9), 6-2, marked the first time a player from the Philippines has reached the fourth round of a Grand Slam tournament.
Eala's Historic Victory
Alexandra Eala, ranked 29th seed, delivered a stunning performance against world number three Iga Świątek. The first set was a marathon tie-break, which Eala won 21-19, before taking the second set decisively. After securing the winning point, Eala dropped to the court in emotion before quickly rising to acknowledge her opponent.
In her on-court interview, Eala said: 'I'm really emotional. For someone like Iga, who has won so many Grand Slams, or maybe like Serena or Venus, this achievement may seem small but for someone who grew up in the Philippines it is huge.' She added, 'I went to train with my brother and my grandfather every day after school with my ruffled socks, light-up shoes, and chubby cheeks, so to younger me, this is everything. But, obviously, just because I'm emotional does not mean I'm satisfied, so next round let's go!'
Balding's Reaction
Clare Balding interrupted BBC One's coverage of the Arthur Fery match to break the news live from the BBC studios at Wimbledon. She announced: 'Let us bring you up to date with a major shock. The defending champion, Iga Świątek, is out of Wimbledon, and Alex Eala is the first player from the Philippines ever to reach the fourth round here. A huge result, she is immensely popular all around the world, and gets really big crowds following her. Eala is only 21, and this is a massive moment for her, and indeed for the Philippines.'
Świątek's Title Defence Ends
Świątek, 25, a six-time Grand Slam champion, claimed her first Wimbledon title in 2025 with a crushing 6-0, 6-0 victory over Amanda Anisimova. Her early exit this year is a significant upset in the women's singles draw. Eala now advances to the fourth round, continuing her historic run at SW19.
