Maya Joint Triumphs at Eastbourne, Securing Second WTA Title Ahead of Wimbledon

In a remarkable display of resilience, Australian teenager Maya Joint has clinched her second WTA title at the Eastbourne International, dramatically overcoming four match points in a tense final. The match, held on June 28, 2025, saw Joint face off against Filipina player Alexandra Eala, concluding with a score of 6-4, 1-6, 7-6(12/10) after a gripping two hours and 26 minutes of play. This victory not only solidifies Joint's status as a rising star in women's tennis but also sets a promising tone for her upcoming participation in Wimbledon.

The final was marked by intense competition, with Joint showcasing her ability to remain composed under pressure. "I’m very happy right now, feeling very relieved as well. It was a very difficult match, I’m proud of myself for coming back and staying in the match," said Joint in her post-match interview. Her victory at Eastbourne follows her earlier triumph on clay at the Rabat tournament in May, demonstrating her versatility across different playing surfaces.

Joint's journey to the title included impressive victories over notable opponents such as former Wimbledon runner-up Ons Jabeur and 2021 US Open champion Emma Raducanu, further establishing her credentials on the WTA Tour. The 19-year-old's performance at Eastbourne marks the youngest final since 1981, highlighting her emergence in the competitive landscape of women's tennis.

On the other side of the court, Eala's performance, despite ending in defeat, was historic for her country as she became the first Filipina to reach a WTA final. The 20-year-old expressed her mix of emotions following the match, stating, "This is my first WTA final, it’s a big deal for me and for my country too because it’s historic. I guess that’s also why I’m so emotional." Eala's journey to the final included overcoming formidable opponents, including a semi-final victory against Varvara Gracheva.

As the tennis world shifts its focus to Wimbledon, Joint's recent form positions her as a contender to watch. Meanwhile, Eala prepares to face reigning champion Barbora Krejcikova, who is currently dealing with a thigh injury that raises questions about her title defense. The upcoming Grand Slam promises to be an exciting battleground for both players, with Joint's confidence at an all-time high following her Eastbourne victory.

In summary, Maya Joint's triumph at the Eastbourne International not only enhances her profile on the WTA Tour but also sets the stage for an intriguing Wimbledon tournament. As both players look forward to their next challenges, the tennis community eagerly anticipates their performances on one of the sport's biggest stages.