Image Source: Inquirer.net
Alexandra Eala is preparing for one of the biggest tests of her rising career as she takes on Belinda Bencic in the fourth round of the 2026 Canadian Open in Toronto. The Filipina star has already made headlines during a breakthrough season, but her next opponent brings Olympic glory, major tournament experience, and an inspiring comeback story.
The match places two contrasting tennis journeys in the spotlight. Eala represents the next generation of women’s tennis, while Bencic has rebuilt her career after stepping away from the sport to become a mother.
Alexandra Eala Faces a Powerful Canadian Open Challenge
Eala’s rapid rise has made her one of the most closely watched players at the tournament. After reaching the fourth round, she is continuing the momentum created by her recent success on the WTA Tour, including her maiden tour-level title at the 2026 Mubadala DC Open.
That victory in Washington, D.C., marked a major breakthrough for the 21-year-old. Eala defeated established opponents, including Naomi Osaka and Jessica Pegula, on her way to the title. She also made history with a deep run at Wimbledon, further strengthening her reputation as one of the sport’s most exciting young players.
However, the Canadian Open has not been completely straightforward. Eala rolled her ankle during her second-round match against Caty McNally and later required a medical timeout during her third-round battle. Despite the scare, she continued competing and secured her place in the Round of 16.
Her resilience has added another compelling layer to the match against Bencic. Eala will need to manage the physical demands of the tournament while facing a player known for her composure, clean ball-striking, and ability to handle pressure.
Belinda Bencic’s Remarkable Family-Powered Comeback
Bencic was born on March 10, 1997, in Flawil, Switzerland, to Ivan and Dana Bencic. Her parents emigrated from the former Czechoslovakia and both had sporting backgrounds. Her father played professional ice hockey, while her mother competed in handball.
Her father introduced her to tennis when she was two years old. By age seven, Bencic was training daily at the tennis school run by Melanie Molitor, the mother and coach of Swiss tennis great Martina Hingis. She also spent time at the Nick Bollettieri Tennis Academy in Florida.
Bencic eventually became the world’s No. 1 junior and climbed to a career-high No. 4 ranking on the WTA Tour. She has won 10 singles titles, including the 2015 Canadian Open, where she defeated Serena Williams and Simona Halep during an impressive run.
Her most celebrated achievement came at the Tokyo Olympics. Bencic won the singles gold medal and added a doubles silver medal for Switzerland, confirming her status as one of the world’s elite players.
A Historic Return After Maternity Leave
Bencic announced her pregnancy in November 2023 while ranked No. 14 in the world. She married Martin Hromkovič, a former Slovak professional soccer player, in April 2024. The couple welcomed their daughter, Bella, on April 23, 2024.
Hromkovič is also part of Bencic’s professional team, working as her full-time fitness coach. Bencic has spoken about the importance of her husband, parents, and in-laws in helping her balance motherhood with the demands of international tennis.
Her ranking fell outside the top 1,000 by late 2024, making her return especially difficult. She rebuilt her position through regular competition and a series of strong performances. In 2025, she rose from outside the top 900 to No. 11 by the end of the year before returning to the WTA top 10 in January 2026.
That achievement made Bencic the first mother to return to the singles top 10 since Serena Williams in 2021. Her comeback also earned her the WTA Comeback Player of the Year award.
How Bencic Reached the Fourth Round
The No. 12 seed received a first-round bye before defeating Sloane Stephens 6-3, 6-1. She then survived a dramatic contest against Taylor Townsend, winning 6-7(5), 7-6(4), 6-4 after three hours and 24 minutes.
That demanding victory secured Bencic’s meeting with Eala, who entered the match as the No. 25 seed. A place in the Canadian Open quarterfinals is at stake, giving both players a significant opportunity to deepen their tournament runs.
For Eala, the contest is another chance to prove that her recent success is the beginning of a sustained rise. For Bencic, it is an opportunity to continue a comeback that has already become one of the most powerful stories in tennis.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Alexandra Eala playing in the Canadian Open fourth round?
Alexandra Eala is scheduled to face Belinda Bencic in the fourth round of the 2026 Canadian Open in Toronto.
What has Alexandra Eala achieved recently?
Eala won her first WTA tour-level title at the 2026 Mubadala DC Open and also reached the fourth round at Wimbledon.
Who is Belinda Bencic’s husband?
Belinda Bencic is married to Martin Hromkovič, a former Slovak professional soccer player who also works as her fitness coach.
When did Belinda Bencic return to the WTA top 10?
Bencic returned to the WTA top 10 in January 2026 after rebuilding her ranking following maternity leave.
What is at stake in the match?
The winner will advance to the Canadian Open quarterfinals, while the loser will exit the tournament in the Round of 16.
