Alex Eala has gone from strength to strength in her remarkable career so far.
At just 21 years old, she is already a top-20 WTA player, while she claimed her maiden career title in Washington earlier this year.
Eala has also garnered one of the biggest followings in world tennis, with Filipino fans constantly showing up in huge numbers to support her on and off the court.
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However, the rising star now faces a tricky moment in her career, with Eala set for a punishment from the WTA Tour.
The impending penalty, which comes in the form of a $10,000 fine, could arise because she plans to play at the Asian Games instead of the China Open.
But the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) has now given its full support to Eala, who wants to represent her nation instead of appearing at the mandatory WTA 1000 event in Beijing.
Alex Eala backed by Philippine Sports Commission in ongoing WTA battle
As reported by The Philippine Star, Eala has the full support of the PSC as it awaits the WTA’s response to an appeal that aims to spare her from the punishment.
Issuing confirmation, PSC chairman Patrick Gregorio commented: “The PSC is in close coordination and communication with Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) President Bambol Tolentino and PHILTA Secretary General Mayor John Rey Tiangco.
“They have informed me that the official request has already been submitted to the WTA.”
While it is a positive update, it arrives just after a worrying sign for Eala, with her fellow WTA ace Janice Tjen withdrawing from the Asian Games.
Having been set to represent Indonesia in Nagoya, Tjen has since confirmed that she has not been granted an exemption to play by the WTA.
The Asian Games will take place in Japan from September 19 – October 4, while the China Open is scheduled for September 30 – October 11.
WTA and China Open likely desperate for Alex Eala to take part
Tjen’s absence is certainly a shame for the Indonesian and the tournament in general, although her decision is perfectly understandable.
It is possible to view the battle from both ends, with the likes of Eala and Tjen undoubtedly eager to represent their nations on the big stage.
At the same time, however, the WTA Tour and specifically the China Open will be desperate to have its biggest players involved.
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And despite Eala not occupying a spot in the top 10 of the world rankings, she has quickly become one of the most important figures in women’s tennis.
Her popularity is second to none, with the Filipina ace constantly filling stadiums and attracting huge attention worldwide thanks to her loyal fans.
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