MANILA, Philippines — Alex Eala admitted that losing at home “hurts a little more” but she’s taking her WTA 125 Philippine Women’s Open quarterfinal exit in stride after receiving massive support from the Filipino fans.
Despite yielding to Camila Osorio of Colombia, 6-4, 6-4, Eala received love from the home crowd on Thursday night at Rizal Memorial Tennis Center.
It was a tough pill to swallow for the Filipino tennis ace, who missed a chance to contend for a title in the country’s first-ever hosting of a WTA event, but she said the fans’ support helped her cope with the disappointment.
“It’s so nice to feel the support, especially during a loss or during the tough moments in the match,” said Eala. “It’s a double-edged sword, I think. On one end, it does cushion the blow because you know that they’re there for you and they support. On the other hand, it hurts a little more and it’s a little harder to accept because you know you want to do the best for them.”
The 20-year-old, however, said she had no regrets and remained grateful for what she called a historic week for Philippine tennis.
“There were certain aspects of my game that just didn’t show up today. I think there were certain things I really could have done better, but it doesn’t have to be a big deal. I think I have some good things to take away as well from this week in general,” she said.
“We take it in our stride and move on. I’ll just do my best to learn from what I can this match.”
The Rafa Nadal Academy graduate, who played with a bandage wrapped on her right thigh coming from the Australian Open, admitted she had too many unforced errors and praised Osorio for being consistent all through their match.
“I think Camila is a very consistent player. I also think that she’s very smart on court. So I think she changed the rhythms and she never really allowed me to be in a comfortable position. In the end, everyone’s goal now is to make the other person uncomfortable,” Eala said. “But I think she executed really well. I definitely think I had my chances in some moments. But today she played better than me in those moments.”
Eala now heads to a WTA 500 tournament in Abu Dhabi, bringing with her a memorable first home stint as she continues to carry Philippine tennis forward.
“I think it was an overall good week. Of course, I’m disappointed about today. I don’t think I’ve had better days, but it’s just how it is. I have to accept it and there’s always next week,” Eala said.
Looking ahead, she said she will focus on refining her game and staying mentally strong for upcoming tournaments. “Every match is a lesson, and I’m excited to keep growing as a player,” she added. Her experience at the home WTA event, she said, has given her motivation to inspire young Filipino tennis players and continue raising the sport’s profile in the country.
