ALEXANDRA Eala is choosing to take things one step at a time as her rising profile puts her in the company of some of tennis’ biggest names.
Speaking on CBS Mornings, the 21-year-old Filipina said she avoids dwelling too much on the bigger picture, particularly as she continues to receive attention and support following her breakthrough performances on the international stage.
“I think step by step. I try not to look so much at the bigger picture all the time because I can get lost and it can get overwhelming with a lot of emotions, especially with the support that I get,” Eala said.
The growing recognition has also given Eala opportunities to share the stage with players she once watched from afar.
Among them is American Coco Gauff, who is only a year older but has been a prominent figure in women’s tennis since Eala was a young player.
Eala also mentioned Venus Williams, whom she has long regarded as one of the sport’s legends.
“And, you know, being around these amazing peers that I have and sharing the stage with people I’ve looked up to, even Coco, even though she’s just a year older than me, I grew up alongside her, kind of watching her on TV, and of course Venus being a legend,” she said.
“To be able to share the stage with these people is amazing.”
Eala’s approach comes as she continues to establish herself among the leading players of her generation, while carrying the expectations that come with representing the Philippines on the global tennis stage.
Rather than allowing the attention to become a distraction, Eala said she prefers to remain focused on the immediate task and let her career develop one step at a time. (Adrian Co)
