At Just 20, Alexandra Eala (No. 32) Sparks Cultural Phenomenon Far Beyond WTA Tour
© Photo by Franu00e7ois Nel Getty Images Europe via AFP
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On the WTA Tour, everyone is now talking about the “Eala phenomenon.” But what surrounds the 20-year-old player goes far beyond her on-court performances.
At Indian Wells, the Philippine player emotionally discussed the impact of her journey on her country. Over recent months, she has become one of Asia’s most inspiring athletes.
Wherever she plays, fans flock in droves and social media lights up with reactions during her matches.
“A Collective Pride”
“I dreamed of developing tennis in the Philippines, and now I’ve managed to attract a new audience to the sport around the world.
Filipinos have a strong sense of community, and when one of us succeeds, we share this collective sense of pride.
My friends tell me the courts are packed back home and that many things I never would have imagined are happening because of what I’m doing on tour.”
In a country where tennis has not historically been a major sport, the Eala effect is starting to transform the sports landscape.
At Indian Wells, she faces Ukraine’s Dayana Yastremska (No. 52) in her opening match.