Alex takes breather ahead of Singapore Open

Alex Eala is taking a short breather in the country after a grueling hard-court swing in the United States.

Philippine Tennis Association (Philta) executive director Tonette Mendoza told DAILY TRIBUNE that the world No. 18 arrived Sunday and is making a quick stop at home before heading to Singapore for the Singapore Tennis Open from 21 to 27 September.

Eala will then travel to Japan for the 20th Asian Games, where she is set to compete in the women’s singles tournament from 27 September to 3 October at the Nagoya City Higashiyama Park Tennis Center.

Mendoza said the short break is important for the 21-year-old Filipina after a demanding US swing that included her run to the third round of the US Open.

“She arrived on Sunday. She just took a break because the US is in a very hectic, hardcourt season,” Mendoza said in a phone conversation.

“Her opponents in Singapore are harder, so it’s better preparation for her for the Asian Games.”

Eala chose the Asiad over the China Open, a mandatory Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) 1000 tournament, a decision that could expose her to a $10,000 (roughly P629,000) fine and a 52-week zero-pointer penalty.

Mendoza said the Philippine tennis body is still waiting for the WTA’s decision on whether Eala will be exempted from the penalties.

“They don’t have an answer yet, but no news is good news,” Mendoza said.

With several of Asia’s top-ranked players opting to play in Beijing instead, Eala has emerged as one of the favorites for the women’s singles gold in Nagoya.

Philippine Sports Commission chairman Patrick “Pato” Gregorio also assured Eala and Philta that the government is ready to help address any potential penalty so the Filipina can focus on her campaign.

“Let’s not worry. It’s a big deal for Alex to play in the Asian Games,” Gregorio said.

“We discussed the matter. I assured the senators that we will provide what is needed if there is a fine. I hope there is none.”