MANILA, Philippines — After her 2-set quarterfinal victory over Filipino tennis star Alex Eala at the Dubai Tennis Championships on Thursday, World No. 4 Coco Gauff has nothing but praise for the young ace and her fans.
Speaking in a postgame interview on the court, Gauff said Eala brought a new demographic to the game.
“I know you’re mostly supporting Alex, but I have to say it is great to be on a crowded court. I’ve played this tournament for many years and to see this stadium full means a lot,” she said.
“Also, I’d like to thank Alex for bringing a new demographic to the sport, I really appreciate it… I know sometimes, it’s tough when you’re playing against a ‘home’ crowd, but I think it’s great for the sport, so keep being enthusiastic and keep rooting for your player,” Gauff added.
Gauff defeated Eala, her former partner in the Italian Open last year, in the quarterfinals of the Dubai Tennis Championships on Thursday, 6-0, 6-2, and is set to face World No. 9 Elina Svitolina in the semifinals.