Alex Eala’s chances of winning the Singapore Open take a boost without her even playing a match

Alex Eala is back in action this week at the Singapore Open, her first tournament since playing at the US Open.

As ever, many eyes will be on the Filipina sensation, who has rapidly become one of the most popular players in world tennis. Eala now needs to block out the noise at the WTA 500 tournament, where many fans will be expecting her to enjoy a lengthy run.

And fortunately for the many loyal followers of the world number 18, her chances of winning the Singapore Open have arguably taken a huge boost before she's even got underway following a high-profile withdrawal from the tournament.

Despite travelling to Singapore to play in the tournament, American superstar Amanda Anisimova has been forced out of the event. The world number 11 has withdrawn because of a left wrist injury, and has been replaced in the draw by lucky loser Viktoria Morvayova.