MANILA, Philippines — Often asked about how she handles all the pressure, Alex Eala gave an answer that touched the hearts of Filipinos.
The world No. 49 Eala displayed her caliber against Russian Alina Charaeva with a dominant 6-1, 6-2 win to advance in the Round of 16 of the historic 2026 Philippine Women’s Open on Monday night at the Rizal Memorial Tennis Center in Malate.
After the match, the 20-year old Filipina bowed to the crowd, showed her gratitude for the support of the Filipinos, and left a heartfelt message.
Asked about the weight of expectations, the Filipina sensation gave anything but a typical answer.
“Pressure is part of my job—but nothing compared to the pressures that the regular Filipino has to face providing for their families,” Eala said as the crowd cheered.
“It’s nothing compared to what my parents have sacrificed to bring me here,” she added.
Eala emphasized that this is how she grounds herself and what she thinks of whenever she’s overwhelmed with the pressure and the noise.
“You know, sometimes, when all of this attention… and all this pressure gets overwhelming for me. I kind of repeat to myself (thinking of others), that’s what kind of makes me feel small and go back to the ground.”
“It’s that every person all around the world has their own struggles… In the end, it’s a privilege to live up to my dreams, and I am a professional tennis player, and I have worked my whole life to be a professional tennis player.
“I’m at the top of the game. I have so much to be lucky for, despite the challenges that came with my job,” she added.
She further added that this is her way to use her platform.
“I know that on international stages, I represent a huge demographic. It’s really such an honor to have this huge support rallying behind me.
“I do my best to give back to them through my tennis, and you know, through my hard work.
Eala could also not believe how far tennis has come in the Philippines.
“I am grateful to everyone who is here, and I have been dreaming of this for a long time already.”
“I am happy with how far tennis has come in the Philippines.”