AdeThe hard‑courts of the Guangzhou Open proved to be the stage for a promising doubles return by Alexandra Eala (Philippines) teaming up with seasoned Ukrainian doubles specialist Nadiia Kichenok. For Eala — whose focus mainly in recent seasons has been singles — this pairing signals a renewed push into the doubles field. With Kichenok by her side, the venture holds strategic value: blending Eala’s rising singles momentum with Kichenok’s established doubles acumen.
Eala has been on a steep upward trajectory in singles, recently breaking into the WTA Top 100 and generating attention for her upset wins. Meanwhile, Kichenok brings the experience of multiple WTA tour‑level doubles titles and a deep understanding of the partnership dynamics required in the discipline. Their collaboration in Guangzhou underscores an opportunity for Eala to diversify her game, improving net play, serve‑return reflexes and tactical positioning that doubles demand.
Why this comeback matters
From a developmental standpoint, playing doubles offers Eala several advantages: the ability to sharpen reflexes in tight situations, gain court coverage confidence, and build the kind of on‑court communication and partner‑awareness that often translate into better singles instincts. Pairing with Kichenok accelerates that learning curve: Kichenok has a proven record in doubles and can guide situational decisions in matches. For Kichenok, teaming up with a talented singles player like Eala offers fresh energy and the chance to add a new partnership to her résumé.
The environment in Guangzhou is favourable. The Guangzhou Open is one of the few WTA 250 events in Asia, and for Eala—who carries the hopes of Philippine tennis—it provides a stage closer to home, with fewer travel disruptions and a potentially more supportive atmosphere than some of the larger global tournaments. It’s a fitting venue for a comeback in doubles, away from the absolute pressure of a Grand Slam, but in a competitive setting with meaningful ranking and experience impact.
What to watch for
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Chemistry & communication: Doubles success hinges on trust, court‑coverage synchrony and split‑second decisions. Will Eala & Kichenok gel from the start?
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Eala’s net presence: How comfortable will she be moving forward, volleying and anticipating returns?
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Serve‑and‑return effectiveness: With Kichenok’s doubles instincts, the serve‑return games might be a key battleground.
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Momentum carry‑over: Can success in doubles spill into Eala’s singles campaign, enriching her all‑round game?
A look ahead
Regardless of how far the pair advance in Guangzhou, this doubles venture marks a meaningful strategic shift for Eala. It signals her readiness to embrace all facets of her game and learn from an experienced partner. For Kichenok, it offers a chance to mentor and perhaps build a fresh successful pairing. Together, they bring the potential for an exciting doubles campaign.
In sum, the comeback of Alexandra Eala in doubles — via her partnership with Nadiia Kichenok at the Guangzhou Open — is more than just another entry: it’s a calculated move in Eala’s broader career progression, offering growth, experience and a new dimension to her game. Watch this space: their performance might just surprise
Musa
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