Eala Honest Ahead of Miami Round of 16: "I Can Be an Example for All Filipino Children"

By defeating Keys (6-4, 6-2) in Miami, Alexandra Eala became the first Filipino player to reach the Round of 16 in a WTA 1000 tournament.

The 19-year-old Filipino had already beaten Volynets in the first round (6-3, 7-6) and Ostapenko in the second (7-6, 7-5). She reached the Round of 16 without dropping a set.

In an interview shared by *Punto de Break*, the world No. 140 discussed her decision to leave her home country for the Nadal Academy in Manacor and the importance of having role models:

"I’d like to think so—yes, I can be an example for all Filipino children. I want them to see my attitude and the determination I show on the court from their homes, in addition to the results I achieve.

The Academy has been my home for the past seven years, though all the credit goes to the upbringing my family gave me before sending me there.

In Manacor, I was able to build upon that foundation. It’s a combination of everything that’s happened since I started playing tennis—that’s what has led me to these opportunities.

The truth is, I never had someone to look up to—there hasn’t been a great Filipino tennis player, male or female. I’ve had many role models, but in my personal life.

Inspiration doesn’t always have to come from someone big who has done something for the Philippines. For example, young kids in the Philippines don’t need to be inspired by me—they can be inspired by whoever they want. That’s what I did growing up."

Eala will face Badosa in the Round of 16.