Alexandra Eala has quickly become one of the most popular players on the WTA Tour, despite having yet to win a title.
The 20-year-old has won over 200 matches in her career so far, and is currently in her career-high rank of 40 on the WTA Tour.
Eala has a large following at every tournament she plays in, the latest of which is the Dubai Tennis Championships.
Also playing at the WTA 1000 event is world number eight Jasmine Paolini, who has been tasked with discussing the recent rise of Eala.
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Jasmine Paolini claims Alex Eala is ‘huge’ for tennis
Paolini was reminded of the huge numbers of Filipinos arriving for Eala’s opening match, and was asked how she views her progress and how important it is for Asian tennis.
“I think it’s really important to have people from all around the world playing tennis,” said Paolini.
“Somebody like Alexandra Eala, it’s a huge thing for tennis. I think it’s great to have many, many fans also coming in tournaments where usually there are less people.
“Like Abu Dhabi was full of people watching Eala. I also remember the first match in Doha, you could hear from outside the court people cheering for her.
“It’s great. I think also for the generation that are coming after that for tennis.
“We all know Asia has a big population, so a lot of people that can come to tennis, can support us, can support our sport, as well.”
It’s certainly a big positive for women’s tennis, with Eala continuously drawing enormous support wherever she goes.
Jasmine Paolini upbeat in Dubai despite frustrating Qatar Open
Paolini has also proven herself to be a fan favorite on the WTA Tour, but she has struggled to really get going in 2026 so far.
The Italian lost in the third round of the Australian Open before losing her opener at the Qatar Open, having played doubles in both.
READ MORE: The big weakness that Alexandra Eala must address to reach her full potential
Sharing her verdict on her form heading into Dubai, she said: “Doha, it was a tough tournament.
“Grateful that I played three matches in doubles, just to be in the competition. I think it helps.
“But every tournament is a different story: positive, but also negative. We’ll see. I think it’s a positive thing to change the place, to come back here in Dubai.
“Hopefully I’m going to feel better on the court. We’ll see. Every week, it’s another chance. Hopefully I am going to play a good tournament.”
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It’s a great attitude for Paolini to have, with so many tournaments to be played between now and the end of the season.
She is the sixth seed in Dubai, and intriguingly takes on the winner of the match between Eala and Hailey Baptiste.
Paolini and Eala have yet to meet on the WTA Tour, while the Italian has a 1-1 head-to-head record with Baptiste.
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