FORMER ATP players Steve Johnson, John Isner and Sam Querrey have voiced their support for Alexandra Eala’s decision to represent the Philippines at the 2026 Asian Games instead of competing in the China Open.
The issue could potentially result in a fine for the 21-year-old Filipina, with reports indicating that the WTA may impose a $10,000 penalty for missing the mandatory event.
During an episode of The Nothing Major Show podcast, the former players discussed Eala’s situation and questioned whether the WTA should punish a player for choosing to represent her country.
Johnson was particularly critical of the possibility of a sanction.
“1000% she should play. If the WTA fines her, that is the dumbest thing that they could do. Do not fine her. I know that they have not made exceptions in the past for certain players, but there are different rules for everyone. I hate to say it, but there just is,” said Johnson.
Isner also argued that the penalty should be waived, pointing out that Eala could already face a ranking setback by missing the China Open.
“I’m with you. They should waive the fine. Her ranking is going to dip by virtue of not playing,” Isner said.
Querrey, meanwhile, highlighted Eala’s growing profile on the WTA Tour and suggested that the organization could risk losing her participation in other Asian tournaments if the issue escalates.
“They also need stars and she is one of the biggest. They have a lot of leverage going into an individual sport. If she goes ‘if you guys fine me, I will skip more tournaments’. Let’s see how it goes [if she says] I will skip the other tournaments in Asia, where she is going to be the biggest star,” Querrey said.
Eala opted to join Team Philippines for the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games, where she is seeking to improve on the bronze medal she won at the previous edition.
Her decision means she will miss the China Open as the tournament overlaps with the continental competition.
The comments from the former ATP players come as Eala continues to attract significant attention on the international tennis circuit following her breakthrough results in 2026. (Adrian Co)
