Alexandra Eala, a 19-year-old tennis prodigy from the Philippines, is rapidly ascending the ranks of professional tennis, capturing global attention with her remarkable performances and breaking new ground for Filipino athletes on the international stage.
A Historic Breakthrough
Eala made headlines at the 2025 Miami Open with a series of stunning victories. Entering the tournament as a wildcard, she defeated world No. 25 Jelena Ostapenko in the second round, marking the first time a Filipina tennis player had beaten a top-30 opponent at a WTA event. She continued her impressive run by overcoming world No. 5 Madison Keys in the third round, becoming the first Filipino to defeat a top-10 opponent in the Open Era. Her quarterfinal victory over world No. 2 Iga Świątek secured her a spot in the semifinals, a first for a Filipina at a WTA Tour event. Although she eventually fell to Jessica Pegula in a hard-fought three-set match, Eala’s performance propelled her into the WTA Top 100, reaching a career-high ranking of No. 72.
The Guardian
From Junior Champion to Professional Contender
Eala’s rise in professional tennis follows a successful junior career. In 2022, she won the US Open girls’ singles title without dropping a set, becoming the first Philippine player to win a junior Grand Slam singles title. She also claimed junior doubles titles at the 2020 Australian Open and the 2021 French Open. Her transition to the professional circuit has been marked by steady progress and significant milestones.
Training Under Nadal’s Guidance
Since 2018, Eala has been training at the Rafa Nadal Academy in Spain, where she has honed her skills under the mentorship of some of the sport’s best. The academy’s influence is evident in her aggressive baseline play and mental toughness on the court. Eala attributes much of her development to the guidance and support she has received there.
Diario AS
A Role Model for Filipino Athletes
Eala’s achievements have not only elevated her status in the tennis world but have also inspired many in the Philippines. As the highest-ranked Filipina player in WTA history, she serves as a trailblazer for aspiring athletes in her country. Eala hopes her success will encourage greater investment in sports development in the Philippines and inspire young athletes to pursue their dreams.
Wikipedia
With her recent accomplishments and unwavering determination, Alexandra Eala is poised to become a significant force in women’s tennis, carrying the hopes of a nation eager to see her succeed on the world stage.
