Philippines talisman Alexandra Eala says immense expectations become overwhelming sometimes

Alexandra Eala remains determined to reach the LA 2028 Olympics through another route. | Photo Credit: AP

Philippines tennis talisman Alexandra Eala acknowledged on Friday that the immense expectations surrounding her as a pioneer in the category can sometimes become overwhelming for her.

The 21-year-old was recently unable to fulfil her goal of winning Asian Games gold for the Philippines, taking home a bronze medal instead. Her campaign ended in the semifinals after she lost a three-set battle to China’s Wang Xinyu, who later defeated compatriot Zhang Shuai to claim the title.

Eala is currently ranked 18th in the world and in August, she made history by becoming the first Filipino player to win a WTA Tour title.

“I definitely do get overwhelmed sometimes, but I understand that it’s such a privilege to be in the position that I’m in and to be able to live out the dreams that I’ve always had as a kid.” said Eala.

“So it’s something I’ve had to accept that it comes with the job, and this is how things are. I’m ready for the challenge.”, she added.

Also read | WTA 250 to be relocated from Chennai to Manila next year

The Filipino star chose to represent her country at the Asian Games instead of competing at the China Open in Beijing. Despite missing out on the final, Eala said the experience had given her plenty to appreciate.

“It does come with pressure, but I’m really happy that I was able to compete here,” said Eala, who entered the tournament as the top seed.

“To be able to share it with the Filipino people is really important,” she added.

“No regrets. I left everything on the court,” said Eala.

Winning gold at the Asian Games would have secured automatic qualification for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. However, Eala remains determined to reach the Games through a longer route.

“There are other ways of qualifying for the Olympics, so I guess it’s also an extra motivation,” she said.

“Competing in the Olympics is definitely a dream of mine. So, if anything, I leave here more motivated.”