Why Alex Eala Might Not Compete at the Philippine Women's Open in January
A Grand Slam clash and WTA rules could affect her chances of playing in Manila.
Published on Oct 20, 2026
Filipino tennis fans may have to wait a little longer to see Alex Eala compete in another professional tournament on home soil. The tennis star’s participation in the upcoming WTA 125 Philippine Women’s Open remains uncertain, with tournament organizers clarifying that her appearance will depend on her schedule and the rules governing player entries.
PHILTA on Alex Eala’s WTA 125 Open Participation
According to GMA News, the Philippine Tennis Association (PHILTA) initially announced that Alex would be unable to compete in the January 2027 tournament in Manila because of Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) rules on player eligibility. The association later clarified that her participation had yet to be confirmed and that it would respect whatever decision she and her team make.
Alex is currently ranked world No. 20, according to the WTA’s rankings released on October 19. She reached a career-high ranking of No. 18 in August, which was another significant step in her rise through the professional tennis circuit.
The ranking is particularly relevant to her potential participation in the Philippine Women’s Open. Under WTA regulations, players ranked 11th to 20th at the main-draw entry deadline can’t enter a WTA 125 tournament directly during the second week of a Grand Slam. However, up to two players in that ranking bracket may still compete through wildcard entries, subject to tournament approval.
The 2027 Philippine Women’s Open is scheduled for January 25 to 30 at the Rizal Memorial Tennis Center in Manila, coinciding with the second week of the Australian Open. The timing could make participation more complicated for players managing their schedules around the season’s first Grand Slam.
However, there may still be a way for Filipino fans to see Alex play professionally in Manila. PHILTA Secretary-General John Rey Tiangco told GMA News that the association would welcome her and extend a wildcard entry if she decides to participate, subject to the tournament’s rules and approval.
The Philippines is set to host another WTA event in November 2027, too. According to the WTA’s official calendar, the Philippine Women’s Open will return for a WTA 250 tournament from November 1 to 7.
Kat is Preview's Lifestyle Editor, explorer, and occasional rhymer. When not globe-trotting, she's over her computer, writing her next big novel.