Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the WTA 1000 Miami match.
Alexandra Eala has emerged as the surprise package of this year’s Miami Open, blazing her way into the quarter-finals despite starting the tournament ranked just 140th in the WTA Race. For the young Filipina, a win over world No. 2 Iga Swiatek would signal the arrival of a potential future top-10 star.
Alexandra Eala
The Filipina advanced to the quarter-finals without a fight. Her opponent in the Round of 16, Paula Badosa, withdrew before the match because she barely finished her previous one. In the match against Clara Tauson, the Spaniard’s chronic back pain flared up – she called a doctor but managed to finish the match. Would Ila have definitely lost if she had played Badosa? No. Before that, Alexandra defeated Australian Open champion and US Open finalist Madison Keys, who was seeded fifth in Florida (6:4, 6:2).
Iga Swiatek
Swiatek remains the tour’s steadiest force alongside Aryna Sabalenka. While she lost the top ranking last season, the gap between her and the chasing pack remains considerable. In Miami, the Pole has already seen off two seeded opponents — Elise Mertens (7:6, 6:1) and Elina Svitolina (7:6, 6:3) — without dropping a set. Her level fluctuates during sets, but when the pressure peaks, Iga rarely falters.
Alexandra Eala vs Iga Swiatek Prediction
Swiatek is the heavy favourite. Yet Eala’s momentum and freshness cannot be discounted. She’s playing the best tennis of her young career and has proven she’s not intimidated by big names.
