Credential chaos: Alexandra Eala explains how she misplaced her pass three times during a single event

Friday, 03 July 2026 at 00:30

Alexandra Eala ahead of competing at the 2025 Sao Paulo Open

Alexandra Eala addressed a series of unusual off-court issues during her press conference at Wimbledon, explaining that she experienced repeated accreditation problems during the Rome tournament a few months ago, where she lost or misplaced her credential on three separate occasions.

The Filipina player described the situation in detail when asked about her experiences outside the court, outlining how the issue escalated over the course of the event rather than being a single isolated incident.

The world No. 32 is currently enjoying a historic campaign at Wimbledon, having reached the third round and becoming the first Filipina player to go that far in a Grand Slam.

Her next challenge will be against defending champion Iga Świątek, with whom she already shares two previous meetings, the head-to-head currently level at 1–1.

Rome accreditation incidents

The Filipina had a solid campaign at the Rome Open a few months ago, reaching the third round after wins over Magda Linette and Xinyu Wang. Her run ended in the third round against Elena Rybakina in straight sets, concluding her tournament in the Italian capital.

In her recent press conference, Eala broke down the three separate situations in which she lost her credential in the same tournament, offering a chronological explanation of how the problems occurred and how they were resolved.

“Oh my God. This year in Rome, I lost it three times. First time, another player took it by accident. I had to get another one,” she said, smiling from SW19. “And my fitness coach was the one who got them again and again and again.”

“So first time, someone else took it. Second time, I left it in the hotel. And third time, I actually lost it.”

Alexandra Eala celebrates win Rome Open 2026

Focus shifts to Swiatek challenge

Beyond the Rome anecdotes, Eala also addressed her competitive outlook ahead of a high-profile Wimbledon clash against Iga Świątek, acknowledging the difficulty of the matchup while outlining her intent to approach it aggressively.

“I think it’s going to be tough for me. And I’m going to try to make it tough for her as well,” Eala said about her next opponent. “And it’s a different surface than we’ve played on before, so I think there should definitely be some different aspects compared to last time.”

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“I mean, she’s won a Slam on grass, she’s won a Slam on clay. Has she won a Slam on hard? I don’t know. But she’s won a Slam on hard. So, I mean, I’m expecting a great challenge. But, you know, I think I’m ready for it. I’m ready to face it head on.”

Eala will be aiming to reach the second week of a Grand Slam for the first time, a result that could push her close to the top 25 in the rankings, her best position to date. However, she first has to overcome six-time major champion Iga Świątek in what is expected to be a demanding encounter, likely on Centre Court.

Eala and Swiatek shake hands at the net after their Miami Open quarterfinal clash

Alexandra Eala after beating Iga Swiatek at Miami Open quarterfinals

Perspective on progress and pressure

Eala also reflected on the emotional dimension of her recent rise, including the expectations following her breakthrough results. Her recent run has already marked a milestone in tennis history as she becomes the first Filipina—male or female—to reach the round of 32 at a Grand Slam.

“It sounds super impactful when you say it like that. And it’s obviously 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.”

“And it’s things that I’ve been working really hard for. It’s things that my team has been working really hard for. So I really appreciate that I’m able to share this with the nation,” the world No. 32 added. “But I think first and foremost, it makes me super proud because of the work that I’ve put in.”

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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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