Alex Eala on the impact the Manila WTA event could have on tennis in the Philippines

Photo by Robert Prange/Getty Images

Alex Eala’s rise in tennis has been remarkable, transforming from a relative unknown into a recognisable figure on the global stage.

That’s largely due to her loyal following, who consistently show up for her regardless of where she plays or what’s at stake.

The 20-year-old has sparked a wave of excitement for tennis across the Philippines, introducing the sport to audiences that hadn’t paid much attention before.

She spoke to the WTA about how the sport is growing back home and highlighted the impact of this year’s Philippines Women’s Open as a potential catalyst for further change.

Alex Eala shares what it meant to compete in a Pro Event back home

Photo by Robert Prange/Getty Images

Eala started by reflecting on what it felt like to take part in a professional event back home, even if it was just a 125-level tournament.

She explained: “It was an incredible experience for me.

“It was quite an emotional experience as well, being at home. I guess the last time I’ve been able to compete and sleep in my own bed was way back when. It was very emotional just because for me to be able to influence this in some capacity means so much to me, just because growing up, there were never those opportunities locally. You’d always have to venture out and find it, also hence why I ventured out and found my opportunities when they arose.”

Eala then spoke about the impact this type of event can have on tennis in her home country, noting: “I think it’s a great platform or great stepping stone for the women, and athletes in general in the Philippines, just because they’re able to see the level first and they’re able to experience it.”

She continued: “With the 125, who knows, maybe that event will keep growing. It could be a goal for the Filipina tennis players to set like a realistic and professional goal —to be able to play in a WTA event at home or all of these countries — we’re in Stuttgart, last week I was in Linz or in Miami. All of these people all of these little girls and little boys are able to go with their families see these top players experience it and then you know it plants a dream.”

This follows comments she made over a month ago when she highlighted how attitudes toward tennis have already begun changing back home.

Alex Eala earns spot in the French Open main draw

Even though her clay-court season hasn’t gone to plan so far, Eala is already locked into a main draw place at Roland Garros.

That alone is a boost, but there’s more to aim for. With a bit of momentum, she could still push her way into a seeded spot.

She’s currently ranked 44th in the WTA live rankings and has just 60 points to defend before the French Open begins.

Madrid and Rome present opportunities for Eala to climb higher up the rankings, with both tournaments offering valuable points ahead of Roland Garros.

If she can move up 12 spots and break into the top 32, she’d be seeded at a Grand Slam for the first time. It’s within reach if she can build some form over the next few weeks.

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