Alex Eala pays tribute to Filipinos who deal with pressure of daily struggles

MANILA, Philippines – Being a trailblazer in a sport that is still finding its footing in the country is no easy feat, but Alex Eala chooses to take a grateful approach.

Eala reflected on pressure and privilege after her rousing 6-1, 6-2 win over Russia’s Alina Charaeva in the opening round of the inaugural Philippine Women’s Open at the Rizal Memorial Tennis Center on Monday, January 26.

Seeing action at home as a professional for the first time, Eala delivered in front of adoring fans who packed the 2,000-seater center court and later paid tribute to Filipinos who keep fighting in life despite their daily struggles. 

“Pressure is part of my job, and a lot of people ask me how I handle it. Of course, there’s added pressure playing at home. But it’s nothing compared to the pressure that regular, everyday Filipinos have to face providing for their families,” said Eala. 

“It’s nothing compared to what my parents have sacrificed to bring me here. I’m doing my best, and I’m trying to enjoy.”

The 20-year-old has captured the heart of the nation following her steady rise in the ultra-competitive professional tennis scene, barging into the world top 50, beating Grand Slam champions, and making history on the WTA Tour. 

Even the Philippine Women’s Open, the country’s first-ever hosting of a WTA 125 event, is a testament to Eala’s star power and growing influence.

These facts are not lost on Eala. 

“I do my best because I know that, especially on the international stage, I represent quite a big demographic. It’s such an honor to have this support and this community rally behind me. I do my best to give back to them and do what I can through my tennis and through my hard work,” Eala said. 

“Sometimes, when all this attention and all of this pressure get a little bit overwhelming for me, that’s kind of what I repeat to myself. And that’s what makes me feel small again and pulls me back to the ground is that the everyday person — not only Filipinos, just everyone around the world — has their own struggles, and in the end, it’s a privilege to be able to live out my dreams.”

For Eala, she is exactly where she envisioned herself to be.

“I’m a professional tennis player, I worked my whole life to be a professional tennis player, I’m at the top of the game. I have so much to feel lucky for despite the challenges that come with my job.” – Rappler.com