Alex Eala proudly embraces her role in inspiring a new generation of Filipino tennis players, while staying grounded in her personal journey of growth and perseverance on the global WTA tour.
Filipina tennis star Alex Eala continues to take great pride in inspiring a new generation of players, while also remaining grounded in the face of growing recognition on and off the court.
In an interview with her uncle and former PBA Commissioner Noli Eala, and Jera Sison in One PH's Power & Play, the 20-year-old WTA pro opened up about what it means to be at the forefront of tennis in the Philippines—a responsibility she doesn’t take lightly.
“I wouldn't say single-handedly,” Eala said. “A lot of people tell me that I’ve inspired so many to start picking up tennis and now the courts are full, the clubs, the coaches, the trainers—they’re getting so many more job inquiries. So it really warms my heart.”
[ALSO READ: Alex Eala happy to see fellow Filipinos take up tennis after recent success in WTA Tour]
Eala reflected on how she grew up when Philippine tennis lacked the spotlight it deserved and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to help change that narrative.
“I grew up in a time where Philippine tennis was in need of help and in need of change. So I’m happy to be able to provide what I can with what I’m doing,” she said.
“Obviously I’m 20, there’s not so much I can really do, but if people can take inspiration from me working hard and competing in these big tournaments, it’s already such a pleasure for me.”
Despite the rising attention from her growing fanbase and success on the global tennis stage, Eala remains unfazed by fame, instead choosing to focus on her growth as an athlete.
“The difficult part of that journey has nothing really to do with fame or the spotlight,” she admitted. “I think the difficulty comes with just adjusting to the tour and trying to be the best version of myself, the best player I can be every single day.”
[ALSO READ: Alex Eala embraces role as trailblazer, says Philippine Tennis ‘can be a big thing’]
Eala also acknowledged her privilege in being surrounded by a strong support system, especially in a sport where many struggle with financial and logistical constraints.
“All these other players are struggling with finances, they’re struggling with finding a coach. So you really have to count your blessings,” she said. “For me, just to be in this situation where I have a supportive family and a really strong team—I have to enjoy that.”
Currently ranked a career-high No. 56 in the WTA following the post-Wimbledon update, Eala is set to make her US Open main draw debut next month. She hopes her continued progress can serve as motivation for aspiring Filipino athletes chasing their own dreams.
“Every athlete and every tennis player has to deal with their own unique set of obstacles,” Eala said. “So I face my problems head-on and take them one by one.”
[ALSO READ: Alex Eala set for more global tournaments ahead of highly-anticipated US Open debut]