So Alex Eala, just 21 years old, and her army of fans march on into the second round — while Mary Stoiana, 23, can also take a lot from the first Grand Slam match of her career.
Here is what Eala said on court just now, following her win.
💬 “Every exchange has its own challenges, especially in the start of the second set. She put me in uncomfortable positions and she’s been having a great run, coming from quali and the past couple of weeks, so I’m really happy with this match.
“The support I’ve been getting the past couple of days here in New York and, honestly, everywhere around the world … I thank the community here in New York, the tennis fans, not just from the Philippines, but who have been making me feel so loved and they are so enthusiastic and contributing to the growth of women’s tennis. Thank you for making it such a pleasure to do my job.”
That pleasure will continue into the second round for the 17th seed.
