Washington Open: Alexandra's First Professional Title
Filipino Alexandra Ayala defeated top-seeded American Jessica Pegula 4-6, 6-4, 6-0 in the Washington Open final on Monday, becoming the first Filipino woman to win a WTA singles title.
The final was suspended on Sunday when Ayala was leading 2-1 in the second set after losing the first, due to persistent rain.
Pegula, who was aiming for her third Washington title after winning in 2019 and 2021, was unable to capitalize on her set lead, and Ayala quickly took control. The Filipina player won 10 of the 13 games played on Monday, leveling the match at one set apiece before surging ahead in the deciding set, fueled by a powerful left-handed serve and some risky groundstrokes.
This victory marked Alexandra's fifth win against a top-ten player, following her wins over Elena Rybakina, Elina Svitolina (twice), and Iga Swiatek.
With this title, Ayala will rise to a career-high ranking of No. 20 in the WTA world rankings.