Alexandra Eala is already the greatest tennis player in Filipino history, and with each new accomplishment, she only adds to her legacy.
And, she is doing it all, carrying such a huge burden, with a smile constantly plastered on her face.
It is for this reason that she has already amassed such a huge and ever-growing fanbase, who follow her relentlessly, no matter the event.
Unsurprisingly, it is far easier and more attractive to lend their support at a place like Wimbledon, where she has now reached the third round.
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In doing so, Alexandra Eala became the first player ever from the Philippines to make it to that stage of a major.
She has now reacted to this accolade in her post-match press conference.
Alexandra Eala becomes the first Filipino to reach a Grand Slam third round
Asked about what it meant to represent her country, Eala offered a touching tribute to the Philippines.
She admitted: “Yeah, it sounds super impactful, I know, when you say it like that.
“It’s an amazing thing for me to be able to do that for my country, but I guess it’s also very emotional every time I’m able to pass a new step or break new ground, just because it’s also personal goals and personal achievements.
“You know, it’s things that I have been working really hard for. It’s things that my team has been working really hard for.
“I really appreciate that I’m able to share this with the nation, but I think first and foremost it makes me super proud because of the work that I’ve put in.”
Eala also spoke about Maya Joint’s win over Serena Williams in the immediate aftermath of their match today, whilst chatting on court.
Alex Eala’s head-to-head record vs Iga Swiatek
In beating Joint, Eala has now set up a mouth-watering clash with Iga Swiatek in the third round of Wimbledon.
It marks the third meeting between these two, and a first on grass.
Their first-ever showdown came at last year’s Miami Open, which marked Eala’s breakthrough tournament.
Who will reach the fourth round of Wimbledon – Alex Eala or Iga Swiatek?
What a match this could be!
The youngster overcame the six-time major champion in straight sets on her way to the semi-finals.
However, Swiatek did not have to wait long to get her revenge, coming from behind to deny Eala in Madrid.
None of their meetings have held as much importance as this upcoming one though, which promises to be a thriller.
