Alexandra Eala's US Open campaign may be over, but the Filipino star is still following the tournament closely. After making history with her best-ever run in New York, Eala was asked which of the remaining players she would like to see lift the trophy — and she did not hesitate to name her choice.
The world No. 18 reached the third round at Flushing Meadows for the first time in her career before her campaign came to an end against American teenager Iva Jovic. It was another important step in a breakthrough 2026 season that has established Eala as one of the fastest-rising names in women's tennis.
Just weeks earlier, the 21-year-old had captured her maiden WTA title at the DC Open, defeating the likes of Naomi Osaka and Jessica Pegula on her way to the trophy. Her subsequent rise to world No. 18 also made her the highest-ranked Filipino tennis player in history.
Eala's growing success has brought enormous attention from back home, but she has quickly become accustomed to dealing with the expectations that come with representing an entire country. Speaking on CBS Mornings after her US Open exit, she discussed everything from the pressure surrounding her rise to the player she is now supporting in New York.
“I am rooting for Coco”
With the tournament entering the quarterfinal stage, Eala admitted that choosing a favourite was not easy given the strength of the remaining field. But she ultimately singled out one player.
“It's very difficult to choose. I think it's a very highly stacked draw at this point, but it always is in the quarters,” Eala said to CBS Morning. “I have to say, though, I am rooting for Coco.”
Eala had watched Gauff's victory over Jovic and was impressed by both players, but when asked what she admired most about the 2023 US Open champion, her answer focused less on her physical abilities and more on what happens between the points.
“I think that she, more than anything, what I look up to Coco for is her grit and the mentality she has,” Eala explained. “Of course, she's a beast and she's physically amazing. She's got great shots, so much power. But yeah, I love her mentality. I like that beast on the tennis court.”
Those qualities may resonate particularly strongly with Eala given the position she now finds herself in. Her rapid rise has made her one of the biggest sporting figures in the Philippines, bringing a level of scrutiny and expectation that she says has become part of life as a professional athlete.
“It definitely comes with pressure. But the life of a competitive athlete comes with pressure,” Eala said. “And I think pressure is a privilege. And I have never been able to relate to something more.”
“And now when I face high-pressure situations, I'm able to take it in my stride. Especially with the experience I've been gaining this year, I look forward to being in those situations.”
“A dream is only a dream until it becomes a reality”
Eala's success has also given her a new perspective on what her career could mean beyond her own results. As the first Filipino player to reach such heights in the rankings, she has seen first-hand the effect representation can have on young people following her journey.
“One thing I've learned this past year is really the power of representation and how deep of an effect inspiration can have,” she said. “When I interact with the people who support me and they tell me their stories, it really touches me.”
Her message to the next generation was equally clear. “I just hope that whatever I do and the job that I have and my day-to-day work inspires other people and inspires the youth especially to chase their dreams,” Eala added. “I'm here. I'm in New York. I'm competing in the US Open. I'm from Manila. And, you know, a dream is only a dream until it becomes a reality.”
Read also
Her own dream of winning the US Open will have to wait for another year, but Eala leaves New York having added another milestone to an already remarkable season. A first WTA title, a career-high ranking and her best-ever result at Flushing Meadows have all confirmed that her rise is far from over.
For now, she will watch the rest of the tournament from the outside — with one particular player receiving her support as the US Open heads towards its conclusion.
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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