Alexandra Eala’s Australian Open campaign ended on Tuesday when she lost in the women’s doubles event.
Eala and Inigo Gamarra Martins were defeated by Magda Linette and Shuko Aoyama in the first round, 7-6, 2-6, 6-3.
Earlier in the week, Eala was defeated in the first round of the women’s singles event, despite having the support of the partisan crowd. The Filipina, 20, was beaten 0-6, 6-3, 6-2 by American player Alycia Parks.
After losing her doubles match on Thursday, Eala posted a heartwarming message on social media – one that paid tribute to her fans.
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Alexandra Eala reflects on ‘truly moving’ Australian Open support
In an Instagram story posted on Tuesday, Eala said: “I wanted to touch on the enormous amount of support I’ve received this week.
“It’s truly moving to see how my work can touch so many lives in one way or another. It reminds me that what I do is part of something shared.
“This year’s Australian Open has left a lasting impression and is an experience I’ll carry with me as I work moving forward. See you next year.”
In an Instagram post, the Filipina added: “Being able to play here is such a privilege! One that must be earned, but a privilege nonetheless.
“Learning, growing and enjoying. Thank you Melbourne.”
Eala, the world number 49, has since travelled to Manila to take part in the inaugural Philippine Women’s Open. Eala confirmed her appearance at the event on Wednesday.
The event, taking place from January 26 to 31, is also set to feature Polina Kudermetova, Donna Vekic and Australian Open One Point Slam finalist Joanna Garland.
A tactical summary of Alexandra Eala’s loss to Alycia Parks
The masses of Filipino fans who packed into Court Six on Monday could not prevent Alex Eala’s loss to Alycia Parks.
Eala’s weakness against Parks was break-point conversion. The 20-year-old struggled to break the American’s serve throughout the contest, winning only four of her 17 break-point opportunities – as per Sofascore.
For comparison, Parks saved four of the eight break points she faced on her serve.
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Eala was also outgunned in the ace category: Parks served 12 aces to Eala’s one.
Eala made 59 per cent of her first serves, winning 68 per cent of those points. The Filipina also won 45 per cent of her second serve points.
The 20-year-old failed to capitalise on poor periods of serving by Parks. The American served 10 double faults and only won 32 per cent of her second serve points.
If Eala is to reach the top of the women’s game, she must be more ruthless when major opportunities arise, as they did frequently during her match against Parks.
