MANILA, Philippines — Noli Eala urged his niece, Filipina tennis star Alex Eala, to regroup following her shock 6-4, 3-6, 3-6 first-round loss to qualifier Shi Han of China at the Wuhan Open in China.
“Alex meantime was simply outplayed. Just not the usual spunk or energy in her game. Time for Alex to really regroup. A very disappointing loss,” Eala wrote on X.
Despite the setback, the former Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) commissioner remained optimistic about Alex’s future, pointing to her pusupport system and the time she has to bounce back from a string of losses.
“Despite the disappointment, there’s still so much going for Alex. She has a terrific team working with her, a wonderful support group and most of all, she has time on her side. Lots of time to figure this out,” he said.
“I’m certainly not losing hope cause I know Alex is a fighter. Laban lang!” he added.
Eala’s comments came as Filipino netizens expressed disappointment over Alex’s early exit, with some posting harsh remarks about her tennis career and suggesting she pursue show business instead.
Meanwhile, health advocate Dr. Tony Leachon expressed his support for the 21-year-old Filipina in a Facebook post, emphasizing her hard work, dedication and achievements on the international stage.
“As an ardent fan and admirer, I write to you not in disappointment, but in deep respect for the hard work, dedication, and passion you have shown on the court. Every match you play, whether in triumph or in setback, reminds us of the courage it takes to carry the hopes of a nation at just 21 years old,” Leachon wrote.
“You have already proven you belong among the world’s best. From Wimbledon to Washington, you showed us the brilliance of your game and the strength of your spirit. That same spirit will carry you forward. Consult your mentors, lean on your team, and trust in the preparation that has brought you this far,” he added.
