Alexandra Eala’s breakout success in 2025 has earned her a first-time-ever place in the Australian Open main draw.
Eala impressed at the ASB Classic to begin her 2026 season, which has earned her world number 49 in the rankings ahead of the Australian Open.
Her huge ranking climb over the past year means she has automatically qualified for the first Grand Slam of the year.
The Filipina is relishing the chance to play her first Australian Open main draw and she’s explained what she finds ‘special’ about the tournament.
Alexandra Eala has great memories at the Australian Open
Eala has fond memories of the Australian Open, despite not making the singles main draw in her last two attempts.
The star has tasted success at the first Grand Slam of the year in doubles, though, as she won the Junior Doubles title alongside Priska Madelyn Nugroho in 2020.
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“The Australian Open was probably one of my first Junior Grand Slam and for me to be able to win the Junior Girls Doubles with a good friend of mine was such a treasured memory.”
Eala is a huge fan of the Australian Open and called it ‘special’ when appearing in a video alongside Rafael Nadal for Kia.
“Actually, what makes it special for me is the energy. I feel like people have so much fun there. There’s so much diversity. It’s sort of my home Slam, and I have a lot of good memories there.”
The 20-year-old will find out her first-ever Australian Open main draw opponent when the draw is made on 15 January.
Alexandra Eala’s next match confirmed before the Australian Open
Eala might be looking forward to the Australian Open, but she has to get through another high-profile tournament first.
The 20-year-old is set to play the Kooyong Classic in Melbourne ahead of the Grand Slam and her first match is set to be against Donna Vekic.
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Eala knows all about the former Wimbledon semi-finalist, having beaten her in the first round of the ASB Classic recently.
The Filipina will play the exhibition event alongside high-profile talent including Alexander Zverev, Nick Kyrgios, and Alexander Bublik.
The star will play Donna Vekic on Tuesday, 13 January as she continues her preparations for the Australian Open.
