Alex Eala, Coco Gauff in Sync, Dominate Italian Open Doubles Opener
A newly formed but already electrifying partnership made its mark at the Italian Open as Alexandra Eala and Coco Gauff powered through their doubles opener with a commanding performance that left fans and opponents equally impressed.
The Filipino-American duo, teaming up for the first time on tour, showed instant chemistry as they dispatched their first-round opponents in straight sets, 6-3, 6-2. The match, played under the bright Rome sun and a lively crowd at Foro Italico, was a showcase of seamless teamwork, complementary styles, and unshakable confidence.
Eala, just 19, brought her trademark court craft and precise shot-making, while Gauff, the current US Open singles champion, unleashed her trademark athleticism and baseline firepower. Despite their lack of prior experience as partners, their communication and mutual understanding seemed to flow effortlessly.
“We were locked in from the first point,” Gauff said after the win. “Alex and I just clicked. She reads the game so well, and it felt like we’d been playing together for a long time.”
Eala, beaming with pride, echoed the sentiment. “It was just fun out there,” she said. “We kept things simple, stayed aggressive, and trusted each other. Having Coco next to me definitely gave me a boost.”
Their synergy was evident throughout the match. Gauff’s explosive returns set the tone early, while Eala’s deft touch at the net created numerous opportunities. The pair broke serve multiple times and saved all the break points they faced—a stat that underscored their dominant form.
The partnership has already become a fan favorite, not only for their on-court potential but also for the story behind how it came together—Eala famously slid into Gauff’s DMs to pitch the idea.
Now, after a strong opening performance, this unlikely yet promising pair has their eyes on a deep run in Rome.
“We’re taking it match by match,” Eala said. “But we’re here to win.”
If their opener is any indication, the rest of the doubles field better be on high alert—Eala and Gauff are more than just a story. They’re a threat.
