Eala’s Historic First Title, Kuwaki Claims the Open, Son Stars
By James Moreau | 04 Aug, 2026

Alexandra Eala and Shiho Kuwaki secured breakthrough major and tour titles while Son Heung-Min starred in the MLS All-Star showcase.

Alexandra Eala secured a landmark victory by defeating top seed Jessica Pegula in the final of the Mubadala DC Open.  Recovering from an early deficit, Eala cruised through a flawless 6-0 final frame to secure her hard-fought championship win.  The rain-delayed battle in Washington saw the twenty-one-year-old dominate the deciding set, becoming the first player from the Philippines to win a WTA Tour singles title.  Her title run featured victories over the top three seeded competitors – including WTA ranked number 9 Elina Svitolina and number 13 ranked Naomi Osaka – capping off a career-defining week that propelled her toward the upper ranks of world tennis.

Golf fans witnessed elite competition play out at Royal Lytham and St Annes as Shiho Kuwaki captured the AIG Women’s Open title.  Kuwaki battled through tight competition across four rounds before forcing a sudden-death playoff against Esther Henseleit.  Demonstrating remarkable composure under immense pressure, the 23-year-old from Okayama, Japan sealed the prestigious major victory on the second extra hole.  The clutch victory earned her a signature trophy and $1.5M in prize money, alongside a major milestone in her professional career, prevailing over a world-class field.

On the pitch, Son Heung-Min stole the spotlight during the MLS All-Star Game in Charlotte.  Representing LAFC, the dynamic forward delivered a masterclass against the Liga MX All-Stars.  Son scored two decisive goals in the first half to spark a high-scoring victory for the MLS squad, earning MVP honors for his electric display.  He became the first player in LAFC history to capture the award, showcasing his world-class scoring touch and further cementing his immediate impact in North American soccer.