MANILA, Philippines — Fresh off her 2026 Asian Games stint, Filipina tennis ace Alex Eala had her first-ever experience attending a runway show in Paris, attending the Chanel Spring/Summer Season 27 on Oct. 5 at the Grand Palais exhibition space in France.
The 21-year-old Eala relished her experience in watching the pieces of Matthieu Blazy in real life.
“I’m in awe; this is my very first show in Paris, my very first with Chanel. I don’t think that there could be a better first show,” she told Harper's BAZAAR Singapore in an interview.
With top tennis players like Naomi Osaka, Serena Williams, and Coco Gauff sporting fashion looks in their on-court matches— Eala is also open to incorporate looks in her future game days.
“I would definitely (wear). I would if given the opportunity. I would love to wear that look on court,” referring to supermodel Anok Yai’s floor-length black "galaxy" gown, puffed shoulder with a sequined overlay.
Eala was also asked to compare her first experience in sitting on a Paris runway show versus her first-time playing in Roland Garros.
“Almost impossible comparison, but I do have to say Roland Garros. You know, tennis is my first love. It will always be my first love, but fashion has really been growing on me.”
