Sen. Erwin Tulfo Calls on Government to Help Alex Eala Pay Potential $10,000 WTA Fine

Alex Eala has been riding high over the past few months, conquering new courts and instilling Pinoy pride wherever she goes.

Presently, the tennis star is gearing up for the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan. However, her decision to represent the Philippines at the upcoming event could come at a cost. By competing at the Asian Games, Alex will skip the WTA 1000 China Open, a mandatory tournament for players of her ranking. Should the WTA deny her requested exemption, she could face a $10,000 fine and a zero-point ranking penalty.

In response, Senator Erwin Tulfo has called on the government to provide financial support for the athlete should the penalty be imposed.

Following Alex's decision to compete in the Asian Games as a Philippine delegate, the Philippine Tennis Association (PHILTA) filed for an exemption from the WTA, hoping to allow her to represent the country without incurring any penalties.

"We have formally requested an exemption, and we respect the WTA's process. At the same time, Alex [Eala] has made her decision to represent the Philippines at the Asian Games, and we fully support her," PHILTA secretary-general John Rey Tiangco said.

Philippine Olympic Committee president Abraham Tolentino likewise expressed his support for Alex's decision. "The WTA has its rules, and breaking the rules has penalties. But Alex will be in Nagoya for [the] flag and country," he stated.

As Alex currently holds the 18th spot in the WTA rankings, she is expected to participate in mandatory WTA 1000 tournaments, including the China Open. Skipping the tournament to compete in the Asian Games could cost her $10,000, or approximately P630,000, in fines.

In light of the potential penalty, Senator Raffy Tulfo has called on the Philippine government to extend financial assistance to Alex. "If she is being fined because she chose to represent our people, isn’t it only right that the government extends its assistance or support to her?" the senator said during a privilege speech on September 15.

The senator acknowledged that the fine "may be a significant amount," but underscored the importance of supporting "one of our best athletes [in] representing our country."

"I believe it is a price worth paying for," he added.

"We should not put Alex in a situation where she has to choose. She chose to play for the Philippines instead of her professional career. She should not have to carry that burden alone," he continued in his speech.

Notably, Indonesia's Janice Tjen reportedly had her request for an exemption from the China Open denied after opting to compete in the Asian Games.

As of writing, the WTA has yet to announce whether Alex will be granted an exemption from the China Open.