Rafael Nadal’s Uncle Toni Becomes the Reason Behind Alexandra Eala’s Rise to Stardom as Her Coach Reveals Details

In March 2025, 19-year-old Filipina Alexandra Eala, whose “main goal is simply to be the best version of myself,” became the sensation of the Miami Open. Ranked 140th and without a WTA-level victory against a Top 100 opponent, she defied expectations by stunning three Grand Slam champions – Jelena Ostapenko, Madison Keys, and Iga Swiatek – en route to the semifinals. This remarkable run also etched her name in history as the first Filipina woman to reach a WTA event semifinal. Eala’s journey to this breakthrough began at just 13, when she left the Philippines for the Rafa Nadal Academy in Mallorca, a place she calls “home” for the past seven years.

Crediting the Academy for her strong foundation, she’s had the invaluable experience of watching her “idol,” Rafael Nadal, train and even receiving guidance from Toni Nadal. But there’s a fascinating detail about her story that has remained under wraps until now…