Eala Stuns Paolini in Dubai, Italian Players Compete Across the Globe
Tuesday, February 17th, 2026, saw a flurry of action as Italian tennis players competed in tournaments worldwide. However, the biggest upset of the day came in Dubai, where Alexandra Eala defeated Jasmine Paolini.
Eala’s Upset Victory in Dubai
Alexandra Eala achieved a significant win against Jasmine Paolini in the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships. This marks Eala’s third Top 10 win of her career. Paolini, the number one Italian player, was looking to rebound after a disappointing loss in Doha, but Eala proved too strong. The match took place on the Centre Court as the second match of the evening session, starting at 4:00 PM local time.
Eala’s performance included two speedy steals that excited Dubai fans, showcasing her agility and skill on the court. Following the match, Eala expressed her require for rest after the demanding victory over the world no. 8 and former tournament champion.
Italian Duo in Doha
In Doha, Simone Bolelli and Andrea Vavassori competed in the Qatar Exxonmobil Open. The pair entered the tournament fresh off a title win in Rotterdam against Ray Ho and Hendrik Jebens. They faced Adam Pavlasek and John Patrick Smith in their opening match.
Rio Open Showcases Italian Talent
The Rio Open 2026 presented by Claro featured a strong Italian presence with Matteo Berrettini, Francesco Passaro, and Luciano Darderi all in action. Berrettini faced Tomas Barrios Vera, while Passaro took on Dino Prizmic. Darderi, seeded number 2, aimed to continue his momentum after reaching the final in Buenos Aires.
Darderi’s opponent, Juan Manuel Cerundolo, arrived in Brazil after a final loss in Buenos Aires. This marked the sixth encounter between the two players, with Darderi holding a 3-2 advantage in their head-to-head record.
Bellucci Seeks Redemption in Delray Beach
Mattia Bellucci competed at the Delray Beach Open, facing Miomir Kecmanovic. Bellucci aimed to improve his performance after a difficult start to 2026, including a loss at the Dallas Open.
How to Watch the Matches
Tennis fans could follow the ATP and WTA matches on Sky Sport, SkyGo, Now, and SuperTennis (for the WTA 1000 Dubai tournament).
Match Schedule – February 17th
- WTA DUBAI: Jasmine Paolini vs. Alexandra Eala (second match, 4:00 PM on Centre Court)
- ATP DOHA: Simone Bolelli/Andrea Vavassori vs. Adam Pavlasek/John-Patrick Smith (second match, 11:30 AM on GrandStand 3)
- ATP RIO DE JANEIRO: Matteo Berrettini vs. Tomas Barrios Vera (first match, 8:30 PM on Campo Guga Kuerten)
- ATP RIO DE JANEIRO: Francesco Passaro vs. Dino Prizmic (first match, 8:30 PM on Campo 2)
- ATP RIO DE JANEIRO: Luciano Darderi vs. Juan Manuel Cerundolo (second match, 8:30 PM on Campo 2)
- ATP DELRAY BEACH: Mattia Bellucci vs. Miomir Kecmanovic (not before midnight on Centre Court)
FAQ
Q: Where did Alexandra Eala defeat Jasmine Paolini?
A: Alexandra Eala defeated Jasmine Paolini in the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships.
Q: What tournament were Simone Bolelli and Andrea Vavassori competing in?
A: Simone Bolelli and Andrea Vavassori were competing in the Qatar Exxonmobil Open in Doha.
Q: Which Italian player is seeded number 2 at the Rio Open?
A: Luciano Darderi is seeded number 2 at the Rio Open.
Q: Where can I watch these matches?
A: Matches are available on Sky Sport, SkyGo, Now, and SuperTennis.
Did you recognize? Alexandra Eala’s victory over Jasmine Paolini is her third career win against a Top 10 ranked player.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on Luciano Darderi’s performance in Rio. He’s within reach of breaking into the Top 20 rankings.
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