Alex Eala humbled by growing fan support, embraces responsibility

MANILA, Philippines–Alex Eala marveled at the growing support she has received at the Mubadala DC Open in Washington, where tournament organizers said fans have flooded them with inquiries about her matches.

Tournament chairman Mark Ein said the event has received an overwhelming number of inquiries about Eala since announcing her participation last month.

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READ: Alex Eala credits consistent crowd support to ‘being Filipino’

“Over the last month, the ticketing team says at least 80%, if not more, of the requests in this tournament are about when is Alex Eala playing?” Ein said in a story on the WTA website.

“When you look at the amazing players here and how many great stars there are, it says something about Alex’s following,” he added. “Earlier this year, our team said, this is a phenomenon that’s spreading, and we should try to get Alex to come to Washington. Having her here is honestly one of the really great things that’s already happened this year.”

The 21-year-old Eala, who advanced to the quarterfinal after beating China’s Zheng Qinwen and Canada’s Leyla Fernandez, said she was honored to learn of her impact on tennis fans.

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“I think it’s incredible. Of course, Washington, D.C. is a really big event, a really popular event. So, I mean, it makes me feel loved, what can I say? And it makes it more exciting to play here,” she said.

Embracing the platform

As she continues to put the Philippines on the tennis map, Eala said she remains mindful of the influence that comes with her growing profile.

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“I think with the platform that I have, it’s important for me to be aware of the impact that I hold also. And I learned through bits and pieces of what people and the fans themselves tell me,” Eala said.

“And I understand that I represent a lot. I represent a minority. I’m the first Filipina to kind of make it at this stage in tennis. And that doesn’t just go for the Philippines necessarily, but maybe another nationality or another little girl who maybe didn’t see a pathway before that. I’m really grateful for everyone who supports me. They’re the reason I have this platform at the end of the day. And it just adds to how meaningful my job is to me. I know that brings you great joy.”

Entering the Mubadala quarterfinal, Eala admitted that she also feels pressure being a crowd favorite, but it’s all about keeping herself locked in in every match.

“There’s definitely pressure. I mean, I’m a competitive athlete, so there’s pressure. But I think the obligation also comes to myself,” Eala said.

“I’m a very self-demanding person. I’m a very ambitious person. So I’m definitely happy and welcoming to everyone who wants to support me as well and go along on this journey. But I know that this is my journey first and foremost, and I have the expectations I have on myself. “