Big stage beckons: Alex Eala arrives in NYC for her US Open debut

Filipino tennis ace Alex Eala has arrived in New York, ready to make her mark in the US Open main draw as she continues her transition from junior standout to full-time professional.

Eala announced her arrival with an Instagram post from Manhattan, simply captioned: “New York, New York.” The 19-year-old secured her main-draw slot through a steady climb in the WTA rankings, highlighted by strong showings earlier this year, including an impressive run at the Miami Open.

A recent shoulder injury forced Eala to withdraw from both the Cincinnati and Monterrey Opens, causing her to slip to World No. 70. Now, she’s aiming to bounce back and regain momentum in the season’s final Grand Slam.

This US Open campaign marks another pivotal chapter in Eala’s budding career—as the former US Open girls’ doubles champion seeks to make her presence felt among the sport’s elite. With Filipino fans rallying behind her, she’s hoping for a breakthrough performance.

The US Open kicks off on August 26, with Eala entering as an unseeded player likely to face a tough opening challenge. Still, her track record suggests she’s ready to spring a surprise on tennis’s grandest stage.