By ADRIAN STEWART CO

Negrense Alexandra “Alex” Eala has returned to the country ahead of her campaign in the Philippine Women’s Open, drawing attention from fans who gathered to welcome the country’s top-ranked tennis player.

The 20-year-old arrived on Wednesday, January 21, with her parents, Mike and Rizza, and coach Joan Bosch to prepare for the inaugural staging of the WTA 125 tournament, which will run from January 26 to 31 at the refurbished Rizal Memorial Tennis Center.

Eala came straight from Melbourne, where she recently made her first appearances in both singles and doubles at the Australian Open, marking a significant step in her growing career on the international tour.

Upon her arrival, Eala confirmed that she would take part in the Manila event and said she is eager to compete in front of Filipino supporters.

“Yes, I’ll be playing next week. I’m really looking forward to it and I hope people can come out and support the Pinays,” Eala said.

“This is a huge milestone for Philippine tennis and for all Filipina players,” she added.

Philippine Tennis Association Secretary General John Rey Tiangco, who is also part of the tournament’s organizing committee, was on hand to greet Eala at the airport.

Organizers earlier secured her entry into the tournament through a wildcard.

Eala’s arrival drew notice from fellow travelers at the terminal, with several fans applauding and calling out her name as she passed by, underscoring the growing following she has built as one of the Philippines’ leading athletes./ASC, WDJ