Alexandra Eala took some time to fully grasp her Miami Open run and even then everything felt surreal to her.
It is not an exaggeration to say that the Filipa’s run was the definition of a fairytale and dream campaign.
After being given a main draw wildcard to make her WTA 1000 debut in Miami, Eala went on to shock three Grand Slam champions – Jelena Ostapenko, Madison Keys and Iga Swiatek. By stunningly making the semis, she also became the first Filipina with a WTA 1000 semifinal and the first player from her country to get into the top-100.
Eala, who started Miami ranked at No. 140 in the world before securing a 65-spot gain, also challenged Jessica Pegula pretty well and came close to reaching the final before ultimately losing in three sets.
Eala: I’ve made a statement and I’m proud but now the real work starts…
“Wow, this year’s @miamiopen has left me speechless and so full of emotion, mostly pride and gratitude. I’m proud of myself for pushing through those tough moments, as well as to have been able to make a statement for the Philippines in one of the biggest stages of tennis. Moreover, I’m thankful for all the positivity coming my way, and I pray that you all continue sending support through the highs and lows,” the 19-year-old wrote on Instagram.
“I recognize that these two weeks have opened the door to so many opportunities for me, but along with those opportunities come a whole new set of obstacles I will have to navigate through. The real work starts now.”
It is safe to say that Eala is right when she says that “the real work starts now.” After clinching a couple of huge wins in Miami, she has put herself on the map and nobody will take her lightly. Also, the competition now knows more about her game after watching her in South Beach.
Eala will feel increased pressure and expectations with more eyes looking at her but that will also be an opportunity for her to further grow and possibly become one of the best in the game.
Tennis World USA