Filipino Tennis Star Alexandra Eala Reaches Career-High Ranking, Igniting National Excitement - azat TV
Jingshan, China – September 26, 2024 – Alexandra Eala, the rising Filipino tennis sensation, achieved a career-high WTA ranking of No. 56 this week following her victory at the jingshan 125 tournament in China. The 18-year-old’s rapid ascent throughout 2024 has captivated the Philippines and signaled a potential new era for the sport within the nation.
Eala’s journey to prominence this year has been marked by both impressive victories and resilient comebacks. Despite early losses initially keeping her ranking around No. 65, her potential as a contender was undeniable. A shoulder injury in August forced her withdrawal from the Cincinnati and Monterrey Opens, briefly dropping her ranking to No. 75. Though, prioritizing recovery proved crucial.
Returning in September, Eala immediately demonstrated her renewed strength, securing her first Grand Slam main-draw victory at the US Open. this momentum propelled her to the Guadalajara 125 tournament, where she claimed her first WTA 125 title.By September 22nd,Eala had impressively climbed 80 places in the WTA rankings over nine months,reaching No. 58.
The Jingshan 125 further solidified her progress. Facing Belarusian Aliona Falei in the opening round, Eala navigated a tense match, overcoming a mid-set comeback to secure a 3-0 start, then leveling at 5-5 in the second set. Ultimately, she clinched victory in one hour and 51 minutes, matching her then-career-best ranking.She is now preparing for a round-of-16 clash with Japan’s Mei Yamaguchi,ranked No. 268.
Eala’s success is notably significant for the Philippines, a country historically lacking prominent representation in international tennis. Her partnership with the Rafa Nadal Academy has provided her with elite training and support. Outlets including ABS-CBN News, Sports Inquirer, and TennisUpToDate have closely followed her progress, highlighting her as an inspiration to a new generation of Filipino athletes.
“Eala’s story is no longer just about rankings-it’s about rewriting the future of an entire sport in her country,” a recent analysis noted. her 2024 campaign represents a watershed moment for Philippine sports,demonstrating the power of resilience,adaptability,and unwavering determination. As she continues her Asian swing, Eala’s journey promises to further elevate Philippine tennis on the global stage.
