Dubai: She’s beaten Grand Slam champions, thrilled packed crowds, and earned comparisons with the best — but on Wednesday in Rome, Alexandra Eala had no answers.
The 19-year-old Filipina star was dismantled 6-0, 6-1 by Ukraine’s Marta Kostyuk in a first-round defeat that stunned her many fans at the Foro Italico.
Eala has made waves this season with wins over Grand Slam champions Madison Keys and Iga Swiatek before narrowly losing to Jessica Pegula in a thrilling semi-final. After a last-16 exit at the Portugal Open, she gave defending Madrid Open champion Swiatek a serious test in the second round.
Outplayed in Rome
But in her first meeting with 22-year-old Kostyuk, Eala’s game fell apart on the clay. The match lasted just 62 minutes and left Filipino supporters — who turned up in impressive numbers — stunned at Grand Stand Arena.
“I didn’t expect such a big Filipino population here in Rome,” Eala told Tennis.com. “But even just walking the streets, I’ve run into Filipinos five times already. When we walk in the streets, you know when you’re seeing another Filipino!
“It’s such a blessing, of course, to have such a big community. So many places feel like home because of that.”
‘I’d love to see how tennis can grow’
Speaking recently to the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA), Eala said she was proud to be part of tennis’ rise in the Philippines, where basketball still reigns supreme.
“I’m so happy with the attention that tennis is getting right now in Manila. I’m just so grateful that what I’ve done hopefully has played a part in that,” she said.
“I’d love to see how tennis can grow into a big sport in the Philippines,” Eala added.
Eyes on Roland Garros
Despite her early singles exit in Rome, the 70th-ranked Eala will remain in the draw — she is teaming up with American star Coco Gauff in doubles. The teenager has already qualified for the French Open and will be hoping for a better showing at Roland Garros as the clay season continues.