Post by : Badri Ariffin

Dubai – Young Filipino tennis talent, Alex Eala, is all set to embark on a promising 2026 season following a standout 2025 that marked her debut in the WTA Top 50. The 20-year-old is poised to kick off her season at the ASB Classic in Auckland this January, with the goal of solidifying her position among the rising stars of tennis worldwide.

Eala had a memorable moment recently, serving as a flag-bearer for the Philippines during the opening ceremony of the 33rd Southeast Asian Games, standing proudly alongside volleyball star Bryan Bagunas at Rajamangala Stadium. “It was an exhilarating experience and a tremendous honor to represent our nation,” Eala expressed.

Ranking as No. 52, Eala is positioned as the fourth seed at the WTA 250 event in Auckland. Heading the tournament is world No. 14 Elina Svitolina, with Emma Navarro (15), Iva Jovic (35), and Janice Tjen (53) completing the top seeds. The lineup also features seasoned players Venus Williams and Sloane Stephens, both entering through wildcards, along with Britain’s Katie Boulter.

Last year’s champion Clara Tauson will opt for Brisbane instead of Auckland, while Naomi Osaka, who was the runner-up in 2025, is set for the United Cup. Eala's seeded placement signifies a notable career advancement, reflecting a remarkable ascent from No. 147 in 2024, a period in which she primarily participated in lower-tier competitions.

With her relentless baseline gameplay, mental resilience, and expanding international exposure, Eala is not only a proud representative of the Philippines but also a player to keep an eye on in the WTA circuit for 2026. Her performance in Auckland could very well chart the course for another remarkable year ahead.

#Sports News #UAE News