Alexandra Eala isn’t fixated on the idea of making history in tennis. For her, it is just an added bonus.
The 21-year-old created a new record at Wimbledon on Thursday after beating Serena Williams’ slayer, Maya Joint, 3-6, 6-2, 6-0. By doing so, Eala has become the first Filipino woman to reach the third round of Wimbledon. It is the latest milestone for the rising star, who is also the first from her country to win a Tour-level title and crack the top 100.
“It’s an amazing thing for me to be able to do that for my country, but I guess it’s also very emotional every time I’m able to pass a new step or break new ground, just because it’s also personal goals and personal achievements,” Eala explained during her press conference.
“It’s things that I have been working really hard for. It’s things that my team has been working really hard for.
“I really appreciate that I’m able to share this with the nation, but I think first and foremost it makes me super proud because of the work that I’ve put in.”
Eala began playing on the ITF circuit at the age of 14. The following year, she made her Tour debut at the Miami Open, where she would then reach the semi-finals five years later. She trains at the renowned Rafa Nadal Academy in Spain and is coached by Joan Bosch.
Along with her rise, Eala has to deal with the surge in fame back home. The Philippines has an estimated population of 113 million people, which is the 13th largest in the world. She has 1.1M followers on Instagram, with her latest post marking her second round win at Wimbledon receiving around 58,000 likes in the first two hours.
“My personal goals have always been my priority. This is my journey. I’m happy to be able to share it with everyone who wants to take part,” she said.
“I think one of the biggest things that makes it natural and easier to handle is that it’s genuine. So my whole story is very genuine. It’s very close to my heart.
“I’m not trying to be anyone who I’m not. I’m not trying to stray from my values.”
It seems inevitable that Eala’s next match against defending champion Iga Swiatek will be played on one of Wimbledon’s two main courts. She is known for having a loyal fanbase wherever she goes. Furthermore, it is estimated that around 200,000 Filipinos live in the UK, with many doing so to meet the country’s demand for healthcare professionals.
“She’s won a slam on grass. She’s won a slam on clay. She’s won a slam on hard. I’m expecting a great challenge,” Eala said of facing Swiatek.
“But I’m ready to face it head-on.”
