‘I Think We’re Friends’ - Alexandra Eala Opens Up About Leylah Fernandez and Their Shared Filipino Heritage
Tennis player Alexandra Eala discusses her relationship with fellow player Leylah Fernandez and her connections with other athletes of Filipino heritage. Eala recently made history as the first Filipina to win a WTA Tour title at the DC Open.
Why it matters
This highlights the growing influence of Filipino athletes in international tennis and the importance of cultural representation in sports.
Alexandra Eala has arrived in Toronto for the Canadian Open after achieving a major milestone at the Mubadala DC Open. Ahead of her opening match at the WTA 1000 event, Eala shed light on her relationship with Leylah Fernandez while also opening up about her dynamic with fellow players of Filipino heritage.
Eala clinched her maiden tour-level title at the DC Open, claiming a 4-6, 6-4, 6-0 victory over Jessica Pegula in a final that was played over two days due to rain interrupting play. In addition to her personal accomplishment, the 21-year-old also made history as the first Filipina to win a WTA Tour title.
Eala's campaign at the WTA 500 event included a 6-2, 7-6(1) win over Leylah Fernandez, which put an end to the Canadian's title defense. Prior to the contest, the Filipina had spoken highly of Fernandez, describing her as a "great player."
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