Alexandra Eala’s Australian Open campaign came to an end earlier than many tennis fans would have expected.
The Filipina star, who has become one of the most popular figures in tennis, was defeated by Alycia Parks in the first round of the women’s singles event, despite the overwhelming support from the crowd.
On Tuesday, Eala’s Melbourne campaign officially came to a close when she and Inigo Martins Gamarra lost to Magda Linette and Shuko Aoyama in the women’s doubles.
It has been a disappointing week for the 20-year-old, who began the year in good form after reaching the semi-finals of the ASB Classic.
However, Eala’s early exit has opened up a new opportunity.
Does anybody else even come close to Alex Eala’s popularity right now?
Alexandra Eala confirms her participation in the 2026 Philippine Women’s Open
As reported by the official Instagram account of the Philippine Women’s Open, Alex Eala is set to take part in the inaugural event.
Eala said: “Yes, I will be playing next week. I’m looking forward to it and I hope people can show up and support the Pinays.
“It’s a huge milestone in Philippine tennis, and I think it’s a big deal for all of us Filipina tennis players.”
Held in Manila, the tournament is set to take place between January 26 and 31 on hard courts.
The event, a WTA 125 Challenger, is set to feature a variety of notable tennis players alongside Eala.
Donna Vekic, a former Wimbledon semi-finalist, is set to attend; as is Lulu Sun, who reached the Wimbledon quarter-finals in 2024.
Joanna Garland, the Australian Open One Point Slam finalist, is also set to compete in Manila, as is Tatjana Maria, the 2025 Queen’s Club champion.
Alex Eala’s strength at the 2026 Philippine Women’s Open
With the new tournament being held on hard courts, Alex Eala has more than a good chance of winning the title.
In a recent interview, Eala revealed that she is most comfortable when playing on hard courts.
She told One Sports in 2023: “I grew up playing on hard court, that’s where I feel most comfortable.
How high do you think Alexandra Eala’s ceiling is?
“I think I have some pretty good results in other surfaces but I would say hard is my preferred surface.”
If Eala wins the Philippine Women’s Open, her popularity will surely skyrocket. The Filipina is already one of the most popular players on Tour with tennis fans, and a victory in her home nation would most likely secure her status as an iconic sporting figure within the Filipino community.
