BREAKING: Filipino Fans Left Heartbroken and Confused as Alex Eala Faces a Fine and Ranking Points Blow as a Politician Weighs In After a WTA Request
Alex Eala is at risk of a $10,000 (£7.4k) fine if she competes in this year’s Asian Games. The Filipino tennis star faces an uncertain wait for the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) to make a judgment on her attendance in Japan.
The WTA has reportedly rejected Indonesia’s Janice Tjen’s appeal for an exemption, with the players in attendance being required to skip the WTA-mandatory China Open in Shanghai. The Philippine Tennis Association (PHILTA) has filed an exemption request with the WTA.
Eala, 21, is set to be one of the biggest stars to compete at the Games as she is currently ranked 18th in the world after reaching the third round of the US Open. The young tennis ace was defeated by 14th-ranked Iva Jovic, banking £48k in the process.
But the WTA’s decision on Tjen, ranked 35th in the world, will raise some concern for Eala. Tjen has reportedly withdrawn from representing Indonesia in the Asia Games.
Participating in the Asian Games without the approval of WTA would see Eala hit by the £7.4k fine. She also faces losing ranking points if she misses the China Open.
The world’s top 30 players are mandated to play at the WTA 1000 China Open tournament. Regardless of the WTA’s decision, Eala is set to play in the Asian Games.
Eala has seen some support from politicians in her home nation. Such is their inclination to see her compete in Japan, they have even called for support to be offered to their tennis star.
Philippine senator Erwin Tulfo called upon the Philippine Sports Commission and the Philippine Olympic Committee to find a way to assist Eala if she is fined.
“If she is to be fined for choosing to represent our country, isn’t it only fitting for the government to extend assistance or support to her?” Tulfo told ABS-CBN News.
Senator Bong Go, meanwhile, has called on the WTA to grant Eala an exemption. The Philippine Sports Commission is working hard to ensure Eala has no issues.
“The PSC is in close coordination and communication with Philippine Olympic Committee president Abraham Tolentino and PHILTA secretary-general and Navotas Mayor John Rey Tiangco. They have informed me that the official request (for exemption) has already been submitted to the WTA,” PSC Chairman Patrick Gregorio said.
Rest assured of the PSC’s all-out support. We will continue to assist Alex, PHILTA, and the POC in every way we can.
“We pray she is granted consideration despite the consequences prescribed in standard rules. Alex Eala’s heart and love for the country is golden,” Gregorio added.
Despite not making it to the business end of the US Open, Eala has spoken passionately about the support she has received from the Filipino public. She even had a noticeable contingent of fans in New York, with the city’s Filipino community showing out.
“It’s indescribable to sum up the support and how it makes me feel in just a few words,” she said in her press conference. “It’s a real privilege to experience this in a lifetime.
“You know, like… Oh God, sorry. Playing on Arthur Ashe, and feeling the support, being in those environments, learning these lessons, and fighting and doing what I love. I’m really happy.
