Philippines’ Alex Eala and Iva Jovic of the United States secured a historic win after defeating seasoned veterans Venus Williams and Elina Svitolina in the doubles match opening of the ASB Classic 2026 in Auckland, New Zealand.
With a final score of 7–6(7),6–1, the two young tennis stars proved they are capable to head-to-head against the sport’s elite.
While the 20-year-old Eala, currently ranked World No. 53, continues her upward track following a successful 2025 campaign highlighted by her third-round finish at the US Open. Meanwhile, 18-year-old Jovic, the World No. 35, remains a terrifying rising star known for her consistent performance during its junior circuit.
This victory launched the duo into the doubles quarterfinals and marked a powerful start in their 2026 season.
Defeating a lineup like Williams—a former World No. 1 with seven Grand Slam titles—and Svitolina, the current World No. 14, makes this triumph even more remarkable.
