MANILA, Philippines — Rising Filipino tennis star Alex Eala remains hungry for greater achievements, saying the pursuit of excellence does not end even if she eventually reaches the top spot in the world rankings.
In a recent interview with Vogue, Eala reflected on her rapid rise in professional tennis and the growing attention surrounding her career. Despite already establishing herself among the sport’s elite, the 21-year-old Filipina said she continues to focus on improving her game and maximizing her potential.
“I don’t think you stop hunting even when you’re number one in the world,” Eala said in the interview. “If I actually get to number one, I can tell you. But I don’t think the hunt ever stops.”
Eala’s comments came as she continues to make waves on the international tennis scene. She was ranked No. 18 in the world during the Vogue feature and has collected victories over several Grand Slam champions, including Iga Swiatek, Naomi Osaka, Elena Rybakina, Madison Keys and Jelena Ostapenko.
Her breakthrough has also extended beyond individual victories. Eala became the first Filipina to win a WTA 500 singles title after claiming the Washington event, further strengthening her position as one of the Philippines’ biggest names in tennis.
Her growing success has also sparked increased interest in tennis among Filipinos. During the Canadian Open in Toronto, Eala drew thousands of fans, with Philippine flags and supporters cheering her on throughout the tournament.
But despite the attention, Eala said the support and recognition she receives do not distract her from the standards she has set for herself.
“I know what it takes to stay where I am,” she said. “I know I can tell myself the hard truth: If you don’t meet the standard, you’re not going to be here.”
Eala’s rise has been built on years of discipline and sacrifice. She began playing tennis at a young age under the guidance of her late grandfather Roberto before eventually moving to Spain as a teenager to train at the Rafael Nadal Academy in Mallorca.
Her journey has since transformed her into a sporting icon in the Philippines, with her performances inspiring a new generation of Filipinos to take an interest in tennis.
Still, Eala appears to be looking far beyond rankings and recognition.
The young tennis star said her ultimate goal is to maximize her potential and look back on her career knowing she gave everything she had to the sport. She also has her sights set on winning Grand Slam titles and Olympic gold.
“Everything’s on the table,” Eala said.
For now, however, Eala’s focus remains on the journey — and for the rising Filipino star, the hunt for greatness appears to have no finish line.
More of this at: https://www.abs-cbn.com/entertainment/showbiz/celebrities/2026/9/5/alex-eala-says-the-hunt-never-stops-even-if-she-becomes-world-no-1-0932
