By MARK REY MONTEJO
Every setback is a setup for a comeback — and for Alex Eala, it means moving on from a failed but historic campaign at US Open in Queens, New York.
In front of thousands of “kababayans” eagerly watching her every move especially her angelic face, Eala, 20, notched a breakthrough Grand Slam win in the opening round of the prestigious meet – a feat that was never done by any Filipino in the Open era – at the expense of world No. 14 Clara Tauson of Denmark, 6-3, 2-6, 7-6(11).
Though she failed to hold on to the momentum after a stunning second-round loss to Spain’s Cristina Bucșa, 6-4, 6-3, Eala knew there is more to learn and it is also important to be gracious in defeat.
“I wished I could’ve gone deeper this week, but it wasn’t meant to be,” Eala wrote on her Instagram post.
Eala vowed to redeem herself and play better compared to her previous outings as she currently focused on her training before she struts her wares anew.
“I’ll be back stronger, but for now, it’s back to work!” she added. “Salamat, New York.”
The former Rafa Nadal Academy standout also shared her delight, admitting it was the first time she felt that kind of joy while competing on such a stage.
“US Open ‘25, what an experience! I’ve never in my life felt so loved on a tennis court, and for that, I thank you all from the bottom of my heart,” Eala said.
Though she suffered another early elimination, Eala is likely to improve her WTA ranking. She is currently ranked No. 70.
She also took home $154,000 (P8,797,406) for reaching the second round.
The Asian and Southeast Games bronze medalist is anticipated to continue her hardcourt quest as well as to prove her promise in Sao Paulo Open – a WTA250 tiff – slated Sept. 8 to 20 in Brazil.
When all set and done in the WTA calendar, the Philippine team hopes Eala could banner the Nationals in the upcoming 33rd Southeast Asian Games in Thailand this December.
