Filipina tennis star Alexandra Eala at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships. ARCHIVE

After another big win in Dubai, Alex Eala paused to reflect with Expat Media on what the past year has meant to her career and her life. “You’ve had a whirlwind few weeks from Manila to Abu Dhabi to Doha and now Dubai. Is there anything you’ve learned that you think has changed your game or changed you personally?” we asked. Eala did not hesitate. “I think I’m learning, obviously. As the Miami Open anniversary comes up, I will be coming up one year of full, really full just WTA tournaments so I think that comes with a lot of learnings as well; a lot of maturity,” she said. The 20-year-old has experienced a surge of attention in 2026, both on and off the court. In Dubai, her fans are hard to ignore: filling the stands, waving Philippine flags and being present for her every game. “Especially this part year 2026 has brought me a lot of love and a lot of attention from fans so it does come with its set of struggles and set of sacrifices but I think in the end I need to remind myself that this is what I’ve been working my whole life for,” she shared. “How many people would love to be in my position. So I make it a point every day to really give my all and be grateful for what I have.” Eala’s journey has already made history. On August 25, 2025, she became the first Filipino to win a main-draw match at the US Open, defeating Denmark’s Clara Tauson, then ranked World No. 14.

In Dubai on Tuesday (February 17), the 20-year-old Filipina produced a statement performance at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships, defeating World No. 8 Jasmine Paolini in straight sets to reach the Round of 16. Eala won 6-1, 7-6(5). After her win, Eala turned toward the stands, her voice breaking as she addressed a crowd packed largely with Filipinos waving national flags.

“This stadium is full of Filipinos. Ilan kaya sa inyo yung nagdadasal para sa akin? How many of you have been praying for me to win? So I really have to give everything I got.”

Filipino supporters were not only visible inside the stadium, but also throughout the Tennis Village outside, many carrying handmade signs reading “Laban Alex!” and “Let’s go Alex!”

“I looked up and there were Filipinos for days,” Eala said with a smile. “It’s really such a blessing to be able to play in these sorts of atmospheres.”

“I am really privileged and thankful that I’m able to introduce this new sporting world, women’s tennis, to a new demographic. I think they’re really enjoying it and I hope it will inspire young girls and women of all ages to take up sports.”

Eala returned to Centre Court on Wednesday (February 18) to face and defeat Sorana Cirstea, continuing what has become a breakout week in Dubai.

From a young girl training in Manila to a regular on the WTA Tour, Eala says perspective keeps her steady. The spotlight may be brighter now, but her mindset remains the same: work hard, stay grateful, keep learning. PIA/Expat Media
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