CELEBRATING International Women’s Day on Sunday in California (Monday in Manila), Filipino tennis ace Alexandra ‘Alex’ Eala paid tribute to the women who inspired other women to do good in their chosen path.
Eala made the gesture after her 6-2, 2-0 walkover win against world no. 4 Coco Gauff of the United States at the WTA 1000 BNP Paribas Open Monday morning.
Gauff retired in the second set due to an apparent left shoulder or arm injury.
“First and foremost, I want to say happy Women’s Day, everybody. Bear with me because I have a lot to say,” said Eala, who wished Gauff a speedy recovery.
“I want to say thank you to all the incredible women who have paved the way for other women.
“Among them is Coco. So thank you, Coco, for being an amazing competitor and amazing role model. And I really hope that everything is well and you will recover soon.”
Eala also paid tribute to her mom Rizza who was watching her from the stands.
“I also want to say Happy Women’s Day to my mom who is there in the stands,” said Eala.
“I want to thank her for being the amazing woman that she is and for helping me become the woman that I am. And that goes to all mothers.”
Eala faces Czech Linda Noskova in the fourth round likely on Wednesday.
The 20-year-old Eala is expected to hit a new career-high 28th in the WTA rankings after reaching the fourth round, leaping from 32nd last week and topping her previous best rank of 31st.
The live rankings already reflected the change as of writing but the official WTA rankings haven’t yet.
Meanwhile, Eala guaranteed herself $105,720 or P6.3 million prize money after reaching the fourth round.
If Eala wins against Noskova, she will secure $193,645 or P11.5 million prize money.
