Alex Eala had nothing but praise for her Filipino supporters after winning her Round of 32 match against Donna Vekić in the 2026 WTA 250 ASB Classic in Auckland, New Zealand, on Tuesday.
Uy, Philippines!
The 20-year-old sensation was arguably the most popular Filipino athlete last year, and she unsurprisingly got her Filipino fans to watch her match in Auckland, New Zealand. And, in true Alex Eala fashion, she acknowledged the presence of her fellow kababayans during her post-game interview.
“It’s so special, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned in 2025, it’s that home is the people and not the place. So, thank you, everyone, maraming salamat,” she said. “It’s so amazing just to have all these people show up.”
The 2025 WTA 125 Guadalajara champion then added that having a huge crowd cheering the players actually adds to the dynamic of the game.
“It definitely adds to the tension, the atmosphere, and obviously the emotions after the match,” she added. “So, I’m grateful, I’m grateful that they took time out of their day to watch and support.”
Homecourt Advantage Becomes Everywhere
Since breaking out on the tennis scene at the WTA 1000 Miami Open, Eala has captured the overwhelming support of Filipino fans despite mostly playing internationally. And the crowd that watched her book a Round of 16 slot in the 2026 WTA 250 ASB Classic on Tuesday in Auckland is proof of that drawing power.
Eala can expect another big cheering crowd the next time she takes to the court, this time against Petra Marcinko, who also hails from Croatia like Vekić. Marcinko advanced with a win over Colombia’s Camila Osorio, 6-4, 0-6, 7-6.
