“Isn’t It Only Right?”- Alex Eala Gets Major Backing As Lawmakers Offer To Cover WTA Fine Over Asian Games

Alex Eala is the highest-ranked WTA player ever to play at the Asian Games and will represent the Philippines in Aichi-Nagoya. That decision has led to consequences from the WTA. To participate in the Asian Games, she will need to skip the China Open, a mandatory WTA 1000 tournament starting September 30. Meanwhile, the other event runs from September 19 to October 4.

Skipping a mandatory 1000-level tournament without an approved exemption results in a ranking penalty and fine. Philippine tennis officials have confirmed that they have filed for an exemption on Eala's behalf, but not participating at the Games was never a question.

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