Emma Raducanu advanced to the last 16 of the Miami Open after her opponent, McCartney Kessler, retired at the start of the second set due to a back injury.

Raducanu dominated from the outset, taking just 30 minutes to claim the first set 6-1. The 22-year-old broke early in the second set and led 3-0 before Kessler, 25, was forced to withdraw.

“I could tell something was up, and it’s hard to stay focused when your opponent is struggling,” Raducanu told Sky Sports.

“I wish her a speedy recovery because she has been playing so well. I’m happy with my focus—I haven’t been at this stage of a tournament for a while.”

Raducanu will face either Amanda Anisimova or Mirra Andreeva in the next round.

Eala stuns Keys in Miami shock

Earlier, 19-year-old Alexandra Eala produced a major upset, defeating Australian Open champion Madison Keys 6-4, 6-2. The Filipina wildcard, ranked 140th in the world, became the first woman from the Philippines to beat a top-10 opponent in the Open era.

Eala, who won the US Open girls’ singles title in 2022, had already eliminated 2017 French Open champion Jelena Ostapenko in the second round.

“Growing up, it was tough because you didn’t have anyone from where you’re from to pave the way,” Eala said. “I hope this takes Filipino tennis to the next step.”

She will face Paula Badosa in the last 16 after the Spaniard overcame Clara Tauson 6-3, 7-6 (7-3).

Swiatek extends historic WTA 1000 run

Second seed Iga Swiatek also progressed, defeating Elise Mertens 7-6 (7-2), 6-1. The Polish world number two became the first player to reach the last 16 in 25 consecutive WTA 1000 events, a streak dating back to 2021.

Swiatek will play Elina Svitolina next, after the Ukrainian secured a 6-2, 3-6, 6-2 win over Karolina Muchova.