Manila: Alex Eala earned the chance to fight for her first gold medal in the SEA Games women’s singles event after she drubbed Thailand’s Thasaporn Naklo, 6-1, 6-4, in the semifinals on Tuesday afternoon at the National Tennis Development Centre here.

According to Philippines News Agency, Eala, the top seed, overcame a strong comeback attempt by Naklo in the second set, where she initially trailed 0-2 after a dominant performance in the opener. Naklo capitalized on her service game, making it challenging for Eala to break her serve and maintain momentum.

A sizable Filipino crowd provided support as Eala surged forward in the closely contested second set, gaining a crucial advantage at 5-3. Although Naklo managed to win the next game, Eala held her serve in the 10th game to secure the victory. With the win, Eala assured herself of at least a silver medal.

Ranked No. 52 in the world, Eala now faces another local competitor, Manachaya Sawangkaew, in the finals on Thursday. She has the opportunity to win the country’s first gold in women’s singles since Maricris Fernandez-Gentz achieved it in 1999, before Eala was born.

After the match, women’s team head coach Denise Dy praised the 20-year-old’s performance. Dy, a two-time SEA Games gold medalist, remarked on Eala’s handling of the center court and her ability to respond effectively to Naklo’s resistance, especially in the second set.

Eala is also set to compete in the mixed doubles semifinals with partner Ni±o Alcantara on Wednesday, aiming for another shot at gold.