Alex Eala to pocket astronomical prize even if she loses to Belinda Bencic at Canadian Open

Alex Eala has carried on her fine form from the Washington DC Open to this tournament in Canada, and now she is set to face Belinda Bencic in the fourth round of the competition.

The 21-year-old extended her winning streak to seven matches after their third-round victory over Caty McNally at the Canadian Open.

Eala secured her first-ever career title at the WTA 500 in Washington DC, prior to her arrival at the Canadian Open, and she is showing signs of becoming a top five player, according to Serena Williams’ former coach, Rick Macci.

This incredible run of seven victories has propelled her to a career-high ranking of world No. 20. But her task is set to get more difficult as she will face the world No. 12, Bencic, after defeating Caty McNally (world No. 70) in the third round and Alycia Parks (world No. 71) in her opening clash of the Canadian Open.

However, even if Eala does not overcome the challenge of Bencic in the fourth round of the tournament, she is set for an astronomical prize pot after she reaches this stage of the Canadian Open.

Caty McNally speaks into Alex Eala's ear at the net.

Eala will win a total of $105,720 should the Swiss tennis star emerge victorious; however, should the 21-year-old progress to the quarter-final of the competition, she would be entitled to $193,645, as reported by the ATP Tour.

While both Eala and Bencic will be fully focused on the next task in front of them, and they will not be looking too far forward, should either of them win the Canadian Open, then they will be lifting the trophy and a prize pot of $1,151,420.

Following the early exit of Arnya Sabalenka in this tournament, it helps to open the field to whoever may be crowned champion with the favourite being Elena Rybakina, who is world No. 2, with Bencic (world No. 2) perhaps believing it may be possible to add to her 10 titles and her 2021 Olympic gold medal.