‘Eala-mania’ takes HK by storm

Alex Eala’s growing popularity has translated into packed stands at the Hong Kong Tennis Open with tournament director Peter Johnston highlighting the Filipina’s impact on ticket sales and attendance.

Johnston said the 21-year-old Eala was a major attraction throughout the tournament, drawing sell-out crowds for nearly every session as she made her way to the final.

Eala, however, fell short of winning the title after absorbing a 3-6, 0-6 loss to world No. 102 Claire Liu of the United States in the final last Sunday.

“It’s been fantastic really. We’ve had so many big stars that were signed to play here. But of course, we see Alex now in the final. She has been a massive reason why we’ve had sell-out sessions. We’ve sold every session except one,” Johnston told Philippine Tennis Association board member Dyan Castillejo.

Johnston recalled watching Eala’s semifinal showdown against Maria Sakkari of Greece which was interrupted by several rain delays but kept spectators glued to the action.

Eala eventually came out victorious, 7-5, 3-6, 6-4, to advance to the final.

“I went out when she was playing out there in the middle of that match, which was an amazing match against Maria. An incredible match, I think with eight rain delays or something. But I could hear all the cheering from outside.

“And I went out to have a look and on the big screen in the village, it was absolutely packed. And they were following every point. And for us it was just a spectacular atmosphere here.”

The tournament director said Eala’s presence helped create the atmosphere, despite the strong field assembled for the event.

Asked whether tickets were usually sold out whenever Eala played, Johnston credited the Filipina with providing an added boost to attendance.