Coco Gauff faces Alexandra Eala later today, in a battle between two of the most popular players on the entire WTA Tour.
Despite being just 21 and 20 respectively, their pull extends far beyond the confines of just sport. They both have an entire country at their backs.
However, it is Alex Eala who is truly taking over, with the Philippines revelling in their new hero, who is putting tennis in their country on the map.
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Discussing these fans ahead of their clash, Coco Gauff has admitted that what her fellow Dubai Open quarterfinalist is doing is ‘incredible’ for the sport.
Coco Gauff explains how Alex Eala is great for tennis
Speaking to the WTA in an interview following her most recent Qatar Open win, naturally, much of Gauff’s conversation surrounded her upcoming match with Eala.
Set to get underway later today, the American admitted that she is expecting a unique challenge against both player and the crowd, but plans to rise to the occasion.
Alexandra Eala will finish 2026 ranked — in the world
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She did reserve special praise for the Filipina sensation though, noting: “Yeah, I’ve never played Alex at any levels, so I’ve practised with her a few times. She played really well last night against Jasmine, and I’m sure she’s going to play some good tennis tonight with the crowd support behind her.
“And yeah, like you said, she’ll probably have most of the support. It won’t be the first time I’ve played against the home crowd… Well, even though technically not her home, but, you know, she has crazy pull, so it is her home crowd. I would consider it that.
“So, yeah, I think what she’s doing for the sport is incredible, and I played this tournament many years and I’ve never seen the stands as full as they are, especially for the early rounds.
“So, yeah, I’m happy that she’s able to bring a new demographic to the sport.”
Eala was asked if her fans were too passionate, perhaps bordering on rude, yesterday. It’s clear where Gauff stands on this debate.
Alexandra Eala is injecting new life into tennis
Whilst tennis is a sport draped in rich heritage, at times it can be accused of not moving with the times.
Some of its principles are outdated, and there still remains a barrier to entry for many without the financial backing to play at any level, let alone to make it professionally.
However, it’s been refreshing to see how well the WTA have leaned into Eala’s newfound superstardom.
Naturally, there have still been some missteps, with some tournaments failing to provide her with the biggest possible stadium to accommodate her hordes of fans.
But, for the most part, tennis is gaining a huge increase in interest solely because of the Philippines.
To see such raucous atmospheres follow Eala wherever she goes is breathing new life into a sport so often accused of being stuck in the past. Hopefully, this is just the start of an overhaul that helps tennis become the sporting superpower it should be.
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