Jessica Pegula has message for Filipino tennis fans after losing to Alex Eala in the final in Washington

But the Filipina superstar produced a remarkable recovery, capitalizing on her opponent’s mistakes to win 4-6, 6-4, 6-0.

Alexandra Eala will finish 2026 ranked — in the world

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Eala did, of course, display plenty of magical moments herself as she ended her dream Washington Open run in superb style.

Pegula was first to speak on court after their final, with the American quick to reference Eala’s boisterous and loyal supporters.

Jessica Pegula messages Filipino tennis fans after Washington final loss v Alex Eala

Runner-up Pegula commented: “I want to congratulate Alex on an amazing week and an amazing tournament.

“I don’t know how much more I can say, but you are an amazing player and to see how far you have come over the last couple of years, when we first played, to see the amazing fans that follow you every place you go.

“It’s not fun to play against but I do appreciate the fun atmosphere, I do, I think it’s amazing. So congrats, all the best to you, your team and your coach.”

Despite Pegula playing on home soil, the Filipino fans created an electric atmosphere to help inspire Eala, as they regularly do.

The American quickly added of the atmosphere: “Thanks to the crowd. I can definitely confirm for a Monday final, this is the best Monday final crowd I have seen.

“I am sure some people took off work, I won’t tell them where you guys were, it’s amazing you guys showed up.

“And to the Filipino fans who turned up and supported, you are helping grow tennis around the world, I appreciate that and as a female athlete I am happy to see that grow.”

A champion in Washington DC in 2019, Pegula has just been denied a 12th career WTA title, with Eala securing her first-ever.

And it was undeniably fully deserved, with the rising star also beating Qinwen Zheng, Leylah Fernandez, Elina Svitolina and Naomi Osaka along the way.