Alexandra Eala defeated Dayana Yastremska 7–5, 4–6, 7–5 in the first round of the WTA 1000 Indian Wells on hard court on 6 March 2026, confirming her status as pre-match favourite with odds of 1.66 to Yastremska's 2.17. The Filipino player recovered from losing the second set to secure victory in a closely contested final frame, edging through after two hours of competitive tennis. Eala's ability to regain composure after the second-set loss proved decisive in the decider, where she capitalised on key moments to advance. The result maintains Eala's momentum at the Masters 1000 level as she progresses to the second round.