FILIPINO tennis ace Alexandra “Alex” Eala plans to compete at the Asian Games anew in Japan this September, targeting no less than a gold medal finish.
“Asian Games is in my plans,” said Eala in a press conference heard through the Philippine Tennis Association Facebook video on Tuesday.
“Are you going for the gold?” one reporter asked, to which Eala answered, “You think I’m going for first round? Am I going to... Yes [I’m going for gold].”
Eala made her Asian Games debut in China back in 2023 when she was 18 years old.
The lefty netter made a semifinal finish and bagged a bronze medal.
Eala also secured a bronze medal in the mixed doubles with Francis Casey Alcantara.
The 21-year-old explained why she enjoys competing for the Philippines in the regional multisport events like the Asian Games or the Southeast Asian Games.
“Well, it’s always an honor. I think it’s different when you play in the Southeast Asian Games or in the Asian Games or in the Olympics. I think it’s different,” said Eala.
“It brings a different vibe than when I compete in the WTA Tour, and I always, always enjoy, especially when I have teammates, when I have Pinoy teammates.”
Last December in Thailand, Eala suited up for the Philippines and ended the country’s women’s singles 26-year gold medal drought in the SEA Games.
“SEA Games last year was an incredible experience for me. I had so much fun,” said Eala.
“So I’m, I think I’m really excited. I’m super motivated, and I’m going to give it my best.”
Meanwhile, Eala will compete at the WTA 1000 Cincinnati Open slated from Aug. 8 to 23 in Ohio, United States.
Eala is already on the tournament website’s player list.
Cincinnati will be Eala’s third tournament in the North American hard court swing after the 500 Mubala DC Open and the 1000 Canadian Open.
Mubala is set from July 27 to Aug. 2 in Washington while the Canadian Open is slated from Aug. 1 to 13.
Like in the Canadian Open, world No. 28 Eala is on track to receive a seed which merits a first-round bye.
Back in the Philippines after a historic fourth-round Wimbledon finish, Eala has been holding meet and greets with fans and media availability.
