Eala: "I'm leaving the US Open knowing that I gave it my all"

Alexandra Eala should look at the long term and consider this defeat against Iva Jovic from a constructive point of view, seeing the glass as half full. It always hurts to be eliminated from a tournament like the US Open 2026, but the Filipina has nothing to reproach herself for and wanted to affirm that in a press conference that shows her maturity.

When media attention, unconditional fan support, and expectations are as high as they are around Alexandra Eala, the demands are often overwhelming, and every defeat generates a lot of media noise. However, everyone who could enjoy the duel between the Filipina and Iva Jovic will agree that this defeat of Eala should be interpreted constructively, accepting that what was seen is a clear synthesis of a great rivalry for glory in the future.

This was Alexandra Eala's press conference after being eliminated from the US Open 2026 by Jovic

Eala reflects on the defeat

"I am happy with the match. Of course, there is disappointment from the loss, but I try to focus on the positive side. I think it was a really good match and that the level was very high. So congratulations to Iva for continuing to fight and for managing to pull it off."

"What I learned tonight I still have to process. But what I know for sure is that I left everything on the court. I fought through the good and bad moments, even when there were times I wasn't playing too well and others when I was playing really well. What I know is that I fought until the end, and I am happy with that."

"I definitely think I've grown as a player since the last time we faced each other. In this match, I had my opportunities and was able to put myself in some situations that allowed me to have options, and that was positive."

The value of the experiences gained this season

"What haven't I learned this year? (Smiles). With all the experiences I've had, I've found myself in so many new situations and, I guess, faced many firsts."

"Each of those situations brings new lessons. I've learned about myself, how to act, and what the best way to face an obstacle is. I've also learned what impact my decisions can have later on."

"These are things that apply to tennis, yes, but also to life. That would be, in summary, everything I've learned over the past year."

Eala's excitement for the support received at the US Open

"It's indescribable to summarize in a few words all the support I’ve received and how it makes me feel. It's a real privilege to be able to experience something like this."

"Playing at Arthur Ashe and feeling that support, being in those environments, and learning all these lessons, fighting and doing what I love... I am really happy. I am very lucky to have these opportunities, to have all these people supporting me, and to be able to work hard to live this life the way I am living it."

Alex Eala reflects on the journey, the lessons, and the community that means so much to her. 🇵🇭💙 pic.twitter.com/rtVpI5ezQA

— US Open Tennis (@usopen) September 6, 2026

What is Eala's upcoming schedule?

"Before the Asian Games, I think I will be in Singapore. I love playing and competing with the Philippine team, and I've done it both in the Southeast Asian Games and the Asian Games. I think it's a really fun environment, and I love being with the team."

"Especially in the last Southeast Asian Games in December, I had a great time. I think those are memories that will stay with me. Also, the Asian Games are held once every four years, so I felt drawn to the opportunity to compete there, aside from everything else."

It is inspiring to see how the WTA circuit is guaranteed a glorious future with players like Alexandra Eala, whose tennis quality is fully matched by her maturity off the court and long-term vision. The defeat against Iva Jovic at the US Open 2026 hurt the Filipina, but it will contribute many things to her more than promising professional career.

This is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Eala: "Me voy del US Open sabiendo que lo di todo"