Down the back of Melbourne Park, tucked away behind John Cain Arena, lies practice court 22. Typically, this court and those nearby remain quiet at 10 a.m. on the first day of the Australian Open, as fans rush to secure their seats in the stadiums. However, on Sunday, court 22 was overflowing with Filipino fans eager to catch a glimpse of their new “national hero,” Alexandra Eala.
The 20-year-old tennis sensation, largely unknown to casual tennis enthusiasts, has made significant strides up the rankings over the past year. Eala became the first Filipina to win a Grand Slam singles match when she triumphed in her first-round clash at the 2025 US Open. This historic achievement has captured the hearts and minds of the Filipino community in Australia, leading to wild scenes at her practice session on Sunday.
A Rising Star Captivating a Nation
Local fan Jan Marie Cal, who has been following Eala since her junior days at the Rafa Nadal Academy, expressed her admiration for the young athlete. “She’s like the first one in a long time, she’s the first Filipino player in AO, that’s why you see the practice [is packed],” Cal said.
Cal compared Eala’s fame to that of former professional boxer Manny Pacquiao, noting, “She’s the new Manny Pacquiao I think, and she’s very young, so she has long, prime years ahead of her. She resonates with what being a Filipino is like, you can see she is very hard-working, but she also shows her Filipino side, being jolly in her interviews.”
“She is so young, she’s got years ahead of her, and I look forward to seeing her rise up the ranks.” – Jan Marie Cal
Throughout the hour-long practice session, swarms of Filipino fans filled court 22, cheering every time Eala hit a winner and vocally supporting her throughout. Despite the size of the crowd, Eala took the time to greet her fans with a “hi” and stayed afterward to take photos and sign autographs.
Building a Global Fan Base
At her pre-tournament press conference, Eala acknowledged the overwhelming support from Filipinos in Australia. “It’s amazing, it’s been amazing. In this part of the world there are a lot of Filipinos, I know,” she said. “But the turnout this year has grown significantly I would say from the past years. I am so happy to see this environment, and people are excited, and when I’m on court they’re excited to see me. It’s flattering and it makes me feel welcome.”
This development follows a broader trend of increasing visibility and success for Asian athletes on the global stage. Eala’s rise is reminiscent of the journey of other Asian tennis stars who have broken barriers and inspired new generations of athletes. Her success story not only highlights her personal achievements but also serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for aspiring athletes from similar backgrounds.
The Impact of Eala’s Success
The move represents a significant moment for Filipino sports, as Eala’s achievements continue to inspire pride and unity among Filipinos worldwide. Her presence at the Australian Open is not just a personal milestone but a cultural event, drawing attention to the potential of Filipino athletes on the international stage.
Meanwhile, the growing support for Eala underscores the importance of representation in sports. Her success is a testament to the power of visibility and the impact it can have on communities. As Eala continues to make waves in the tennis world, her journey will undoubtedly inspire countless young athletes to pursue their dreams, regardless of the challenges they may face.
Looking ahead, Eala’s performance at the Australian Open will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike. Her ability to handle the pressure and continue her upward trajectory will be key factors in determining her future success. As she steps onto the court, she carries with her the hopes and dreams of a nation, eager to see their new hero triumph on the world stage.
