Filipino tennis star Alex Eala remains committed to competing for her country at the upcoming Asian Games, despite warnings from the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) regarding potential fines and ranking penalties. The Philippine Tennis Association (PHILTA) confirmed on Tuesday that it has formally requested an exemption from the mandatory China Open on Eala’s behalf.
“We have formally requested an exemption and we respect the WTA’s process. At the same time, Alex has made her decision to represent the Philippines at the Asian Games, and we fully support her,” PHILTA secretary-general John Rey Tiangco told reporters.
The conflict arises because the Asian Games schedule, running from September 19 to October 4, overlaps with the WTA 1000 China Open in Beijing, which begins on September 30. Skipping a mandatory tournament without an official exemption typically results in a drop in rankings and possible financial penalties. This dilemma recently forced Indonesian player Janice Tjen to withdraw from the Asian Games after she failed to secure a similar exemption.
Philippine Olympic Committee president Abraham Tolentino emphasized Eala’s dedication despite the risks. “The WTA has its rules and breaking the rules has penalties. But Alex will be in Nagoya, for flag and country,” Tolentino stated in a recent statement.
Eala, currently ranked world number 18, is the highest-ranked women’s singles player entering the Asian Games draw. She has gained significant popularity on the circuit with victories over top players such as Iga Swiatek and Coco Gauff. Her recent form includes winning her first WTA 1000 title last month and reaching the third round at the US Open.
Support for Eala’s decision has come from high levels of the Philippine government. Senator Erwin Tulfo called on the state to assist with a potential $10,000 fine should the WTA impose one. Quoting local media, Tulfo argued, “If she is being fined because she chose to represent our people, isn’t it only right that the government extends its assistance or support to her?” He added that the monetary penalty was a small price to pay for the honor of representing the nation.
The stakes for Eala are high, as tennis is one of the few sports where winning an Asian Games gold medal serves as automatic qualification for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics, provided the athlete meets the top 500 ranking requirement. Eala previously won bronze medals in both women’s singles and mixed doubles at the 2022 Asian Games in Hangzhou.
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