Alex Eala’s greatest strength right now highlighted by Filipino Sports Hall of Famer

Alex Eala’s rise through the tennis ranks has been hard to miss. The 20-year-old has drawn plenty of attention, both for her ability and the story behind her journey.

There’s something a bit different about how it’s all unfolded for her too.

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Usually, it takes players a good few years to build up any kind of following. They pick up fans over time, either by winning titles or by grinding through tough patches and letting their character come through.

Eala, though, seemed to arrive with a fanbase already in place. Her popularity isn’t just down to what she does on court – there’s more going on behind the scenes that has helped shape her rise.

Philippines Sports Hall of Famer Cecil Mamiit praises Alex Eala

While Mamiit may not have reached global stardom during his playing days, he still holds a special place in Philippine tennis. He’s set to be inducted into the Philippines Sports Hall of Fame next month.

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Discussing Eala, he started by drawing a comparison to Manny Pacquiao, telling GMA News Online: “As a player, it’s amazing that she’s taking on the role. She’s doing a great job overall. Her game, great lefty, [there’s] room to improve. She’s doing well.”

“She has pressure right now. But I think it’s manageable to make her a better player over time.

“If she can think longevity and get better every time. I believe being with Nadal Academy and all that support, I think she would be fine.”

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Mamiit then finished by pointing out what makes Eala such an exciting prospect for the sport.

“That’s one thing that’s showing well – her ability to stay in there,” he added. “How many matches has she come back and keep being around and being tough to play? That is the biggest thing right now.”

Madrid Open draw hands Eala a manageable start

Eala hasn’t made much noise at the start of the clay season, but there’s still optimism that she could find her rhythm in Madrid.

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She’ll begin her campaign against a qualifier, and if she gets through that, Elise Mertens will likely be waiting in the second round.

Should Eala advance further, she could face Ekaterina Alexandrova or former world number one Karolina Pliskova in the third round. From there, a demanding stretch may follow, with potential matchups against Amanda Anisimova, Elena Rybakina and Coco Gauff standing between her and the final.

If she makes it to that stage, Aryna Sabalenka would be a tough opponent to overlook once again.

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The full draw is daunting, but with the depth of talent on the WTA Tour, every event presents its own set of challenges.

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