Alex Eala begins 2026 campaign in Auckland ahead of Australian Open push

A new tennis season is officially underway for Alex Eala, and it begins far from home but firmly on familiar ground—hard courts, early mornings, and quiet preparation. 

The Filipino tennis trailblazer has arrived in Auckland, New Zealand, where she has started training for the WTA 250 ASB Classic, set for January 5 to 11, signaling the opening chapter of what could be another defining year in her young career.

Eala has already been spotted grinding through practice sessions with longtime coach Joan Bosch, who shared glimpses of their work on social media. 

While the tournament draw has yet to be released, the 18-year-old is wasting no time settling into conditions, using the Auckland stop as both a competitive test and a springboard toward bigger stages later this month.

The ASB Classic is traditionally one of the final tune-ups before the Australian Open, and this year’s projected field promises no shortage of challenges. 

According to the WTA’s provisional entry list—which remains subject to change—the tournament could feature a deep lineup led by World No. 14 Elina Svitolina and World No. 15 Emma Navarro, alongside a mix of seasoned contenders and rising talents such as Donna Vekić, Magda Linette, and Peyton Stearns. Danish star Clara Tauson enters as the defending champion after lifting the title in 2025.

Following her stint in Auckland, Eala will continue her Australian swing at the Kooyong Classic from January 13 to 15, a prestigious exhibition event held just a week before the Australian Open. The Kooyong appearance marks another milestone for Eala, who continues to earn invitations typically reserved for established names on the tour.

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Kabilang si Pinay Tennis star Alex Eala sa mga naunang sumalubong ng Bagong Taon sa Aukland, New Zealand.

Naroon siya upang paghandaan ang WTA 250 ASB Classic na nakatakdang umarangkada sa January 5. pic.twitter.com/xynzCdSWKG

— TV Patrol (@TVPatrol) January 1, 2026

Much of Eala’s journey has been shaped by the influence of Rafael Nadal, whose academy in Spain became her training base when she was just 13. That foundation paved the way for her US Open junior title in 2022 and, eventually, her breakthrough on the professional tour. Reflecting on a recent on-court experience with the Spanish legend, Eala described it as unforgettable.

“It was so special for me. Obviously, training with Rafa is something people and young kids can only dream about. So it was such a pleasure to share the court with him,” Eala said.

“He gave me some tips on my forehand and a few other small pieces of advice. This is the first time I’ve ever hit with him in my life, and it’s just a memory that will last forever.”

That steady climb culminated in a breakout 2025 season, highlighted by a stunning run at the

Miami Open where she defeated Grand Slam champions Jelena Ostapenko and Madison Keys, along with world No. 2 Iga Swiatek. 

The surge propelled Eala to a career-high WTA ranking of No. 50—the highest ever achieved by a Filipino tennis player.

With her ranking placing her firmly inside the Top 100, Eala is currently on track to compete in all four Grand Slam tournaments this year, including the French Open, Wimbledon, and the US Open. 

As she sharpens her game in Auckland, the focus is clear: build momentum early, stay healthy, and continue pushing boundaries for Philippine tennis on the global stage.

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