Poland’s Iga Swiatek reacts as shde plays against Philippines’ Alexandra Eala during their women’s singles third round tennis match on the sixth day of the 2026 Wimbledon Championships at The All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club in Wimbledon, southwest London, on July 4, 2026. (Photo by Henry Nicholls / AFP) / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE
Reigning champion Iga Swiatek was dumped out of Wimbledon in the third round on Saturday as an inspired Alexandra Eala created more history for the Philippines with a straight-sets victory on Centre Court.
Eala edged a dramatic 84-minute first set before powering to a 7-6 (11/9), 6-2 victory over a stunned Swiatek on Centre Court to reach the last 16.
“It’s difficult to describe. I’m in the second week of a Slam and it’s incredible for me,” said Eala.
It is six-time Grand Slam champion Swiatek’s earliest exit from a major tournament since another third-round defeat, by Yulia Putintseva, also at Wimbledon two years ago.
