MANILA, Philippines — While the Filipino crowd brought so much energy to the WTA 1000 National Bank Open especially during Alex Eala's matches, it's also being criticized for being too loud or for cheering in instances that don't really call for it like double faults, players serving, or when the ball is still in play.
Belinda Bencic, who ended Eala's campaign in the fourth round with a 6-4, 6-0 win on Monday, said she actually doesn't mind a crowd like that.
The 10-time Swiss champ said she even prefers that kind of crowd over the quiet ones.
"You know, I never really minded that," said Bencic after being asked about how she prepared for a crowd like that of Eala.
"Because, you know, whenever I played Serena (Williams) a couple years ago, and I also played in Fed Cups played against France and Brazil, I really like it, I embrace it. I definitely prefer this over a crowd that's not really interested, or that is a little bit quiet."
Bencic stayed focused in the match and that showed especially in the second set, where she bageled Eala, toning down the noise of Filipino fans a little bit.
"Obviously I know they were cheering for her, which was super nice, and the atmosphere was great. So I kind of just tried to focus on myself, and also embrace it like for myself," said Bencic.
"I was mentally prepared, but it's not something that bothers me so much."
Bencic faces Coco Gauff int he quarterfinals.
