While down 4-2 in the first-set tiebreak, Swiatek’s temper boiled over after three unforced errors in a row as the world No. 3 walked over to her bench and slammed her racket into her bag. She could not contain the impressive forehand of her opponent from the Philippines at any point in the contest.
Swiatek gifted Eala a match point with a long volley, the latest of many errors she made throughout the contest. The first was not taken, as the Polish star returned with a stunning backhand, but Eala closed out the tie.
Eala fell to the floor as the emotions overcame her, securing the biggest win of the 21-year-old’s career.
“I don’t know how to describe it,” Eala said. “I’m into the second week of a Slam, and it’s amazing for me. Iga is a phenomenal player and a really nice person, so I’m really grateful to be able to share Centre Court with her at Wimbledon nonetheless.
“I’m really emotional and maybe for someone like Iga who has won so many Slams, or maybe someone like Serena or Venus, this achievement may seem small. But for someone who grew up in the Philippines and… I went to the gym with my brother and grandfather every day after school with my ruffled socks and my light-up shoes and chubby cheeks. So to her this is everything.
“But obviously because I’m emotional does not mean I’m satisfied (laughs). Okay, next round, let’s go!
“Yeah of course, this is one of the biggest matches of my life for sure, and this is my dream court so I’m really happy with the atmosphere that you guys gave. Thank you so much for cheering me on.
“You know how many times I have dreamed of opportunities like this, when I win a first set 11-9, so when I have my opportunities, I have to take it because, you know, they are blessings. Being here is a blessing, I worked super, super hard to get here and I’m taking it. If I have the chance, I am taking it, yeah.
“It’s incredible to have my countrymen cheering me on and to know that we are all in this together. This goes out to them, this goes out to my family, this goes out to all the girls with ruffled socks and chubby cheeks.”
Swiatek was not the only big seed to tumble as world No. 2 Elena Rybakina also lost in straight sets to 25th seed Elise Mertens.