Filipina Tennis Star Alex Eala Heads to Brazil After US Open Debut
Filipina tennis star Alex Eala is set to compete in São Paulo, Brazil, following her main-draw debut at the US Open. Despite a recent dip in her WTA ranking to World No. 68, the 19-year-old remains focused on long-term progress rather than numbers.
Eala has been sharpening her game at the Rafa Nadal Academy in Mallorca, where she recently trained alongside other professionals before flying to Brazil. The tournament she’s joining is a WTA 250 event, running until September 14, and it marks the first time São Paulo has hosted a women’s tour stop since the year 2000.
Overcoming Injury Setbacks
The road hasn’t been smooth for Eala this season. A nagging left shoulder injury disrupted her summer swing, forcing her to take a medical timeout during her Montreal opener against Marketa Vondrousova. She later withdrew from events in Cincinnati and Monterrey, which left her short of match practice heading into New York.
Despite those setbacks, Eala made her US Open debut a valuable learning experience. She stressed that her mindset is about growth, saying:
“There’s no pressure on me. I’m focusing on enjoying the experience and growing every week.”
Eyes on a Comeback in Brazil
Eala enters the São Paulo draw as part of a 32-player field that includes familiar rivals. Among them is Hailey Baptiste, an American player Eala previously defeated at Eastbourne in June. A potential rematch could test her early, but it’s also an opportunity to build confidence and momentum.
A strong showing in Brazil could help Eala regain her rhythm and finish the season on a high note, proving once again that she’s one of the brightest young stars in Philippine tennis.