Caty McNally may have lost to Alex Eala, but the world No. 70 American walked away from the Canadian Open with nothing but gratitude for the Filipino fans who turned the Sobeys Stadium into a sea of support for the Filipina star.

McNally, 24, praised the hospitality of Eala’s supporters despite being on the opposite side of the net during their Round-of-32 clash last Saturday.

Eala prevailed in a grueling three-setter, 6-3, 5-7, 6-4, to advance to the Round of 16 and set up a showdown with world No. 14 Belinda Bencic of Switzerland.

“Beyond thankful for all the love and kind messages received from people all around the world but especially the Filipinos,” McNally said in a social media post.

“The atmosphere out there was absolutely electrifying. I wish the result was different, but I left my whole heart out on the court. The journey continues and my time is coming.”

The 10,000-seat Sobeys Stadium was packed mostly qwith Filipino fans cheering loudly for Eala, creating an atmosphere that even her opponent appreciated despite the difficult circumstances.

Eala, meanwhile, also had nothing but respect for McNally after the American pushed her to the limit in their first meeting.

“I think there was a huge mutual respect for the great match that we had. She told me congratulations, and she said, ‘Thanks for letting me be a part of this,’ which is incredibly kind and gracious from her,” Eala said.

“Super gracious and a lot of respect for Caty.”

The mutual admiration could soon turn into another chapter of their budding rivalry.

Eala and McNally are both expected to compete at the Cincinnati Open in Ohio beginning 13 August, potentially giving the American an opportunity to get another shot at the Filipina star.

For now, however, McNally leaves Toronto with a memorable experience — and a newfound appreciation for the passionate Filipino community that has embraced Eala’s remarkable rise.