Alex Eala Gets Candid About the Pressure of Representing the Philippines

As women in sports, Maria and Alex share similar experiences. The Russian tennis legend brought up Alex’s historic win at the Mubadala DC Open last August, saying, “I remember the outside world labeling it as you just burst onto the scene, and I also know what that’s like. I know what it’s like for someone to say, ‘Oh, she’s just showed up.’ And you’re like, ‘No, I’ve been here a long time. I’ve been playing for over 12, 15 years to get to this moment. It’s just you haven’t seen it yet.’”

Maria then asked the Filipina athlete how she views and navigates public opinion, especially now that more eyes are following her every move. Alex explained that she considers public opinion fleeting and believes she has a “quite healthy” relationship with it. “I’m able to detach quite well, and I’m very convinced with my own opinions, and I trust my team a lot.” She emphasized that it would be “very difficult” to convince her that she isn't doing well if she believes otherwise.

Maria acknowledged the overwhelming support Alex has received from the Filipino community, noting that being on the receiving end of so much love also comes with considerable responsibility and pressure. “What does that mean to you? What is that pressure like?” she asked.

Alex didn't shy away from acknowledging the challenges. “It can get heavy, and it definitely comes with pressure.” She continued, “One thing about this whole journey of support that I’ve been getting is I understand the weight that the representation holds, and I know that there’s a big audience that looks up to me.” For Alex, this responsibility also encourages her to look inward and stay true to herself. “I’ll die on a hill saying that you need to be genuine.”

Her commitment to representing the Philippines was especially evident when she chose to compete at the recently concluded 2026 Asian Games, skipping the WTA 1000 China Open, where she could have earned valuable ranking points.

The Filipina tennis ace shared that this pressure motivates her to become someone worthy of the support she receives. “I want to be the best version I can be of myself, so that I’m genuinely a good example for whoever looks up to me. I try to do my best and represent my culture and these lovely people the way they deserve to be represented.”

She also described the journey as a “very emotional experience,” particularly because of the overwhelming support she receives and her desire to perform well in competitions. “All of those things make this journey so much more emotional—that’s not a bad thing.” She added, “I think it’s nice to experience life like this.”

Alex concluded by quoting legendary tennis player Billie Jean King, who summed it up in four words: “Pressure is a privilege.”