ALEXANDRA Eala took time to reflect on the remarkable progress she has made over the past four years while also making it clear that she is far from finished with her journey.
Eala, who won the US Open girls’ singles title in 2022, returned to the tournament this year and advanced to the second round of the women’s singles competition after opening her campaign with a 6-1, 6-2 victory over Mary Stoiana.
The 21-year-old Filipina has also collected her first WTA 500 title and reached the fourth round of Wimbledon, while gaining greater recognition through major brand partnerships and magazine appearances.
Despite those milestones, Eala said she remains focused on the bigger picture and the career still ahead of her.
“It’s an amazing time, but it’s also an amazing time for me to reflect on the past four years,” Eala said in a post-game interview.
“But it’s also an amazing time for me to look ahead and see my whole career ahead of me and see the people that I go through it with and share the blessings with them.”
Eala expressed gratitude for reaching another stage of her career at one of tennis’ biggest venues.
“So, I’m really, really grateful to be here. I’m on Louis Armstrong, guys. And yeah, I’m really grateful. I’m so happy,” she said.
The Filipina also took the opportunity to thank the supporters who have followed her rise, particularly those in New York and Filipino communities around the world.
“The support I’ve been getting the past couple of days here in New York and honestly, to be frank, everywhere around the world, maraming salamat, mga kabayan,” Eala said.
She also acknowledged local Filipino supporters and tennis fans who have embraced her presence at the US Open.
“Community here in New York, the tennis fans who have, not just from the Philippines, but who have been making me feel so loved and who are so enthusiastic and contributing to the growth of women’s tennis,” she added.
“So, thank you everybody for being part of my journey and making it such a pleasure to do my job.”
Four years after making history as a junior champion at Flushing Meadows, Eala is now attempting to establish herself among the sport’s top senior players.
Her continued progress has made her one of the most prominent figures in Philippine tennis, with her US Open campaign providing another opportunity to add to an already fast-growing résumé. (Adrian Co)
