Elise Mertens kept her perfect record against Alex Eala intact, posting a 6-3, 6-3 victory in the first round of the Bad Homburg Open on Tuesday.
The world No. 24 was in full control throughout the 84‑minute match, using her experience and consistency to keep the Filipina from finding any sustained rhythm on Center Court.
Eala actually made the brighter start, surging to a 3-1 lead behind aggressive baseline hitting. But once Mertens settled, the momentum shifted sharply. The Belgian reeled off five straight games—saving four set points along the way—to steal the opener, 6-3.
The second set unfolded more cleanly for Mertens.
She raced ahead 3-0 with precise serving and early ball-striking before Eala briefly halted the run at 3-1. Though the Filipina produced flashes of brilliance—a disguised drop shot here, an ace at 40-15 there—Mertens remained unshaken.
She extended her lead to 5-2, and while Eala saved two match points on her serve, Mertens closed out the next game without hesitation to wrap up the match, 6-3.
Despite the early singles exit, Eala’s Bad Homburg campaign continues.
The 21-year-old is still competing in doubles alongside tennis icon Venus Williams.
Eala will then head to Wimbledon carrying a career-high ranking of world No. 30, guaranteeing her a seeding of at least No. 29 at the All England Club.
