Alex Eala may have lost to Linda Noskova in the Round of 16 of the BNP Paribas Open on Wednesday, but she certainly isn’t dwelling on it—even if it was a tough way to end what was initially shaping up to be a career-defining run.
Rather than pout, the 20-year-old Eala is choosing to look at the positives and keep a cheerful attitude.
“I do leave with happiness. I think tomorrow I’ll be a bit happier than I am now,” Eala said after her 6-2, 6-0 loss to Noskova. “Of course, the initial feelings after the match are a tough pill to swallow, but I’m in the fourth round of Indian Wells. I’m really happy about that. It’s still something I’m really proud of. And I wish it could have ended under different circumstances, but it is what it is, and there will be a next time for sure.”
Indeed, this was the first time Alex Eala competed at the widely regarded Fifth Grand Slam of tennis, and a Round of 16 finish isn’t something to sneeze at—especially not with a stacked field full of highly ranked players.
Alex Eala Reflects on Growth Forged by Wins and Losses
Afterward, the Quezon City native reflected on how far she’s come, noting that she’s grown a lot since breaking out in the Miami Open at around this time last year. And, importantly, the budding star out of the Philippines made a guarantee that should encourage her many fans to support her all the more as she looks forward to a return engagement in Miami: she is in this tennis thing for the long haul.
“I’ve grown a lot, and I’ve had so many good matches, so many tough losses, so much experience since then. And that’s helped me build confidence, self-esteem, and I know that I belong here…,” Eala pointed out. “So, it doesn’t matter if I win the tournament in Miami or if I lose in the first round. I know I’m here, and I’m here to stay.”
So, yes, Alex Eala didn’t get the result she wanted at Indian Wells. Big deal. She’s getting back up, moving forward, and aiming for the stars still.
