Alex Eala quick to put rising popularity into perspective

MANILA, Philippines – If the Australian Open proved anything, it is that Alex Eala is a legitimate star.

Her practices were packed, fans lined up to catch her breakthrough appearance in the main draw, and her videos on social media drew more views than tennis’ biggest names. 

Even in a Nike ad for the Australian Open that included current world No. 1 players Aryna Sabalenka and Carlos Alcaraz, who have won a combined 10 Grand Slam titles, Eala received the last billing.

But as Eala suffered an opening-round exit in the singles following a heartbreaking 0-6, 6-3, 6-2 loss to American Alycia Parks, the Filipina acknowledged she still has a long way to go. 

“I am nowhere near the leagues of the greats, [Novak] Djokovic, and then now, Sabalenka and Alcaraz, and all of these people. I have so much respect for them,” said Eala in her post-match press conference. 

“I like to think that I have a following for a reason and I like to think that the impact that I’ve had and the platform that I’ve built has a positive effect on a certain demographic and my demographic.” 

Eala also downplayed comparisons to Filipino boxing icon Manny Pacquiao, whose fights during the peak of his powers were a national affair. 

“Manny Pacquiao is different,” said Eala in Filipino. “He is on another level. I remember when Manny has a fight, it felt like a vacation for people. And then the whole family is together at home, there is lechon and popcorn.” 

“I think I’m still a bit far behind.” 

Eala had looked on her way to advancing to the second round as she blanked Parks in the opening set only to lose steam in the second and third sets.

She and Brazilian partner Ingrid Martins then sustained a 7-6, 2-6, 6-3 defeat to Japan’s Shuko Aoyama and Poland’s Magda Linette in the first round of doubles, marking the end of her Australian Open campaign.

While disappointment naturally came with the losses, Eala chose to look at the bright side. 

“I’m the only Filipina in the draw this year. I’m the only Filipina that has ever been in the draw, I think. There are positives to take away… so much gratitude and super thankful,” Eala said. 

Fans in the country get a chance to play Eala at home as she is expected to compete in the Philippine Women’s Open to be staged at the Rizal Memorial Tennis Center from January 26 to 31. – Rappler.com