Filipina tennis ace Alex Eala is gearing up to lead the Philippine delegation in the upcoming Southeast Asian (SEA) Games set to take place in Thailand this December — marking her second appearance in the regional competition and another chance to cement her status as the country’s top tennis ambassador.
Now 20 years old and at the peak of her form, Eala said she feels both honored and excited to wear the Philippine colors again. “It’s always a privilege to represent the country. Competing alongside fellow Filipino athletes brings a special kind of motivation,” she said in a recent interview.
Eala first competed in the SEA Games in 2021 in Vietnam, where she bagged three bronze medals — in women’s singles, mixed doubles, and team events. Her debut performance was widely praised, with many calling her the new face of Philippine tennis.
The Philippines last won gold in women’s singles back in 1999 through Maricris Fernandez, and Eala hopes to end that 26-year drought. “Winning for the country has always been a dream. I’ve grown a lot since Vietnam — not just as a player, but also in terms of mental strength and experience,” she shared.
Currently ranked No. 54 in the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) world rankings — her career-best standing — Eala has played in 30 tournaments this season, including several high-level WTA events in Asia and Europe. Her upward trajectory has made her one of the most promising young players in the global circuit and a symbol of hope for Philippine tennis.
Beyond her on-court achievements, Eala’s leadership is expected to inspire the younger members of the national team. As she continues her international climb, she remains grounded in her goal: to bring glory to the Philippines and elevate local tennis to new heights.
“Every match is a chance to show what Filipino athletes are capable of,” Eala said. “That’s what drives me every time I step on court.”