FILIPINA tennis sensation Alexandra Eala is relishing the chance of playing before a big Filipino audience in the 2025 Italian Open, known as the Internazionali BNL d’Italia.
The 19-year-old Eala said this after meeting numerous Filipinos working and residing in Italy.
“I didn’t expect such a big Filipino population here in Rome. But even just walking the streets, I’ve run into Filipinos five times already,” said Eala in an online statement and at Tennis Channel.
Eala was set to play her first round against world no. 27 Marta Kostyuk of Ukraine late Wednesday.
Eala, who has risen to a new career-high of no. 62 in the World Tennis Association rankings, is in the first group of the draw with top seed Aryna Sabalenka.
“When we walk in the streets, you know when you’re seeing another Filipino! It’s such a blessing, of course, to have such a big community,” said Eala.
“So many places feel like home because of that,” added Eala.
Many Filipino fans came and watched when Eala achieved her breakout wins at the recent Miami Open.
Her memorable stint came as she reached the quarterfinals with upset wins scored over rated players Madison Keys, Jelena Ostapenko and Iga Swiatek.