Alex Eala in Dubai on February 18, 2026. EXPAT MEDIA

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?” Expat Media 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, both on and off the court. The past year has marked her transition into a full-time presence on the WTA Tour, bringing increased expectations along with growing attention from Filipino fans around the world. But perspective keeps her steady. “Especially this past 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 this week, Eala continued her winning streak, defeating American Hailey Baptiste on opening night on Sunday (February 15), World No. 8 Jasmine Paolini on Tuesday (February 17) and Romanian veteran Sorana Cirstea under the lights of Centre Court at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium on Wednesday (February 18). Her Dubai debut was also marked by sold-out tickets, and a stadium packed with supporters, overwhelmingly Filipinos carrying Philippine flags and posters. After winning her match against World No. 8 Paolini on Tuesday, Eala thanked and acknowledge the crowd for their support. “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.” It was a moment that captured both her growing star power and her deep sense of responsibility to the fans who have followed her rise. 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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