Alex Eala returns a shot from Elena Ruse for a point in the first set | Photo by Troi Santos
NEW YORK — In a dramatic and emotional third qualifying match at the 2024 US Open, Filipina tennis sensation Alex Eala’s quest ended. The 19-year-old rising star fought valiantly against 128th-ranked Elena Gabriela Ruse but ultimately fell 3-6, 6-1, 6-4. While the final score may have been disappointing, Eala’s fight, strength, and golden heart touched the audience, who remained loyal until the end.
Eala began the match in dominant form, taking control of the first set with a confident 6-3 win, and it seemed the momentum was entirely in her favor. However, the tide quickly turned in the second set, as she appeared to struggle with discomfort. Ruse capitalized on this shift, quickly taking the set 6-1.
Eala called for the physio to address her discomfort. Though the medical attention briefly eased her pain, it was clear she wasn’t at her best. Ruse also requested treatment during the match, adding to the tense atmosphere. Despite these challenges, Eala soldiered on, refusing to give up.
Her father later shared that Eala played through obvious discomfort but was determined to finish the match for her fans, who rallied behind her. Cheers of “Let’s go, Alex!” and “Laban, Alex!” filled Court 4, giving the young Filipina the strength to keep fighting. Even as the outcome became inevitable in the final set, the crowd remained loyal, urging Eala on with every point.
Among those cheering for Eala was the Philippine Consul General of New York, Senen Mangalile, whose presence to support Alex solidifies the significance of her journey for the Filipino community abroad. The charged atmosphere reflected the powerful support of Eala’s fans, family, and friends, who stood by her throughout the match. ” I hope she felt the warmth of the Filipino crowd. We will cheer her on to her next tourneys until we see her again in the next US Open.” Mangalile said.
As the match concluded, a tearful Eala began packing her gear, still managing to sign autographs and give away her towels as souvenirs for fans who flocked to her side. Their words of encouragement—”It’s okay, Alex,” “Great game,” “We love you, Alex”, “Thank you, Alex!”, “Salamat, Alex” and “Mabuhay!” revealed how much she had touched their hearts, not only through her ability but also through her poise and perseverance in challenging situations.
In the crowd, her family and close friends watched every point with anticipation and pride. Their presence offered her a source of comfort, and their belief in her success remained strong despite the loss. It showed the close-knit circle that supported her career from its earliest days.
At just 19 years old, Alex Eala’s future in professional tennis remains bright. Her run at the 2024 US Open may have come to an early end, but her golden heart and fierce determination continue to inspire fans worldwide. Alex Eala’s tears were not just for the loss. They were for the fans, family, and friends who stood by her until the end and for the dream she carried for herself and her country.
