Eala sparks the tennis 'boom' in the Philippines: "It’s now very difficult to find available courts"
Winner in her first match at the WTA 1000 in Toronto, Alexandra Eala's momentum continues to rise, even many kilometers away from Canada.
Alexandra Eala has just lifted her first professional title in Washington, with all that entails. The 20-year-old tennis player knows that everyone is expecting great things from her, starting with what happens this week at the WTA 1000 in Toronto.
For now, yesterday she managed to navigate the first curve against Alycia Parks, advancing to a third round where things will start to get complicated. However, she always seems to smile, regardless of whether she wins or loses, during press conferences. It is there that she gives us the opportunity to learn a bit more about her origins, her concerns, and the tremendous pleasure she feels in witnessing the growth of tennis fever in the Philippines.
A very special debut in Toronto
"It has been incredible, a very memorable match. It was my first time here in Toronto, and of course, it was a great challenge to get through this match. I am very happy with how I handled the situation, I had to go point by point. She played really well in the second set, and there were things I could do better. In the third, I tried to correct them, to come out with a lot of intensity and seize every opportunity because she is a player who doesn't give you much".
The warmth of the Filipino fans
"It's very hard to compare this atmosphere with that of Dubai, I also received a lot of support there. Today I saw a lot of Filipino flags and that gave me enormous joy. They are two very distinct experiences, but I would put them at the same level because both have been very special".
Alexandra Eala is amazed by the tennis boom in the Philippines
"I would love to spend more time at home, but the tour is very demanding, and I travel constantly. Every time I return to Manila or the Philippines, I see it with different eyes. From what I hear, it is now very difficult to find free courts. I see on social media that everyone is playing tennis, people of all ages. Many people tell me how they started playing tennis or other racquet sports. Tennis has always been beloved in my country, and anything I can do to help it continue to grow will be a pleasure for me".
A victory that boosts her confidence
"After the match, I was still completely euphoric. Also during the on-court interview and when I got to the gym. This victory means a lot to me; it has been a great opportunity to learn and continue growing as a player. It’s not easy at all to switch tournaments so quickly and manage all the emotions I've experienced in the last 48 hours. I am very proud of myself and hope to keep this momentum going".
Alexandra Eala sends a message to her fans
"I just want to thank everyone. Toronto is a very multicultural city, and it has been wonderful to come for the first time and experience that atmosphere. On the court, I felt at home thanks to all the people who supported me. I hope you enjoyed the tennis, the tournament, and that you want to come back to continue living these kinds of experiences".
The dream of inspiring a generation
"It was very special to play the first WTA tournament in Manila and to be part of it. The people in charge of Filipino tennis did a fantastic job, and I have heard very positive comments from both the players and the fans; I hope it continues for many years. When I talk to people, I tell them that many kids grow up going to the Grand Slams or to the big tournaments in their city, and those memories end up becoming a goal for them when they start playing. I hope those WTA tournaments in Manila can mean the same for young Filipinos".
Exploring Toronto... if the tournament allows it
"I don’t think I have family in Toronto, although my family is so large that they are spread across many places in the world. I still haven’t been able to discover the city because right now my routine is hotel-court, hotel-court. I hope to do it later this week; hopefully, I will keep winning matches and can enjoy Toronto a bit more".
This is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Eala desata el "boom" del tenis en Filipinas: "Ahora es muy difícil encontrar pistas libres"