Guts and glory: Nadal advises Eala to push forward

With tears in her eyes, Alex Eala could not help but speak her mind as she gradually moved up the rankings and got ready for Wimbledon.

Denied of a career-first Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) Tour title at the Eastbourne Open, Eala’s runnerup finish to Maya Joint of Australia only proved one thing.

She is now a world-caliber player capable of standing her ground against the sport’s crème dela crème.

For one, the 20-year-old Eala is now ranked No. 56 in the WTA for her stellar showing that awarded her $30,380 (P1.7 million) purse.

Her previous best WTA rank was at No. 69 last back in May.

The Rafael Nadal Academy (RNA) graduate showed grace in defeat after her 4-6, 6-1, 6-7 (10-12) loss to Joint at the Devonshire Park Lawn Tennis Club in London.

“It’s a big deal for me and for my country too, because it’s historic. It’s the first time any Filipina has done anything and I guess that’s also why I’m so emotional,” a sobbing Eala said.

Even the 19-year-old Joint applauded Eala for the grit and determination she showed during the final match.

“Alex, first of all, great week. We’ll definitely play in many more finals,” Joint said.

“You’ve been having such an amazing year, so great job to you and your team, and all the best of luck for next week and the rest of the year.”

Even the RNA where she honed her skills since she was 12 years old is excited to see Eala reach new heights.

“Dear Alex Eala, we know that yesterday’s wound still hurts. But we have learned to lose together, to win together and to DREAM together. And this dream is very big! VAMOS!!,” the Academy posted on social media.

In a separate post on X, Nadal wrote: “The first of many finals.”

Yet Eala is just getting started as she faces another trial: The Wimbledon Championships.

Eala will start the first round against defending champion Barbora Krejcikova of the Czech Republic on Tuesday, at Center Court of the All England Lawn Tennis & Croquet Club.