MANILA, Philippines — Rarely or never do fans see Alex Eala throw a fit during her WTA Tour matches.
While the 21-year-old sometimes celebrates winning plays with a yell, Eala rarely throws a tantrum when things don't go her way, maintaining that calm on-court demeanor.
Eala has her parents Mike and Rizza to thank for that.
"My parents always give me that space to be myself and express those emotions, the frustration, the disappointment that comes with being an athlete," said Eala in an open forum recorded by ABS-CBN News.
"One thing they never tolerated is bad behavior on court or like throwing a fit. I think a huge part of my mental fortitude comes from the values that they instilled in my brother and me growing up."
Eala even carries that calm and composed demeanor off the court, still expressing emotions but in a controlled way.
"The routines, they really pushed us so I think they have a great balance of everything. Leading by example is the gift that they have given to my brother and I and the values."
Eala returned to the country on Sunday after a historic Wimbledon run, holding a series of media availability and meet-and-greet activities with her fans.
After a 3-week break, the first Filipino singles player to reach the Wimbledon fourth round will swing back to action at the Mubadala DC Open slated from July 27 to August 2.
That will mark the start of her North American hard-court swing campaign which culminates at the final major of the year -- the US Open.
