Leylah Fernandez Embraces Filipino Roots, Bonds with Alex Eala

Filipino tennis player Leylah Fernandez is making waves not just with her powerful left-handed game, but with a charm offensive that is winning the hearts of Filipino fans across the globe.

While the 23-year-old Canadian—whose mother is of Filipino descent—has high praise for her contemporary, Alex Eala, she proves to be equally gracious and engaging off the court.

Fernandez recently took the time to bond with 20-year-old Eala during the players’ party ahead of the WTA 250 Prudential Hong Kong Tennis Open. For Fernandez, the connection is natural.

“When I see her, we always talk a little bit. It helps that we are around the same age,” Fernandez shared. “Alex is a sweet girl, an amazing person, super kind.”

The admiration extends to Eala’s game as well. “On court, the few times I’ve watched her play, I know she’s fierce, she’s very determined. She plays really beautifully,” she noted, adding, “I’m excited to see what the future holds for her.”

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LOOK: Filipino tennis star Alex Eala enjoys moments off the court with fellow tennis professional players Victoria Mboko, Leylah Fernandez, and Maya Joint in Hong Kong. | 📷: Eala/IG via Aniza Laniosa, https://t.co/92tzXJyzKu trainee pic.twitter.com/kaADNMq5Pv

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Fernandez is keenly aware of the massive support she receives from the Philippines—a support she is determined to reciprocate.

“I’m extremely honored that they follow me, that they cheer for me and that back in Manila, back in the Philippines, they introduce me as their own,” said Fernandez.

It’s more than just an acknowledgement; she makes an effort to engage with her loyal fan base.

“They send me messages on Instagram and I always greet them … I’m excited to see that, I’m super honored and I hope one of these days I can visit the Philippines and enjoy the culture at a deeper level.”

The second seed and a former Hong Kong Open champion, Fernandez is backing up her fan appreciation with winning form. She easily defeated Germany’s Eva Lys, 6-4, 6-1, to secure her spot in the quarter-finals.

Meanwhile, Alex Eala faces a tougher challenge in her next match on Thursday, squaring off against the powerful Canadian teenager and third seed, Victoria Mboko.

As both players continue their campaigns in Hong Kong, the mutual respect and emerging bond between the two stars of Filipino descent add an exciting narrative to the world of international tennis.

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