Alex Eala stood in awe on Wimbledon’s Centre Court, taking in the historic venue that had long lived in her imagination. The 20-year-old Filipina, fresh off a breakthrough run to the Eastbourne Open final, is set to make her main draw debut at the All England Club—facing none other than defending champion Barbora Krejčíková.
Eala described the experience as surreal, sharing that Centre Court had always been the stage of her childhood dreams. “When I had big dreams as a young girl, they were always on that court,” she told ABS-CBN News. Her excitement was palpable as she prepared for the biggest match of her career, one that blends aspiration with reality.
The road to this moment has been paved with hard work and steady progress. Eala recently climbed to a career-high ranking of World No. 56, and her performance in Eastbourne showcased her growing confidence and ability to compete with the sport’s elite. Her opponent, Krejčíková, brings a formidable résumé that includes a French Open title and eight WTA singles trophies, making the matchup a true challenge.
Despite the odds, Eala remains upbeat and focused. “I’m going up against the defending champion—excited to see how that turns out,” she said. Her words reflect both humility and quiet determination, hallmarks of her approach to the game.
As she steps onto Centre Court for her Wimbledon debut, Eala carries with her the hopes of a nation and the dreams of a young girl who once imagined this very moment. Whether win or lose, her presence on that iconic grass is already a defining chapter in her rising career.
Alexandra Eala in 2025
At the moment ranked no.56 (career-high), Alexandra played her last match on the 1st of January 1970 when she surrendered to world no.41 Maya Joint 6-4 1-6 7-6(10) in the final in Eastbourne (draw).
This year Alexandra has a compiled 26-16 record. Alexandra Eala’s latest run in Eastbourne was the best achievement of her season.