Alex Eala treated as rockstar in foiled AO main draw debut

THERE is no way to go but up. Grateful and all, the youthful Alexandra “Alex” Eala vows a stronger showing next time after early exits in both the singles and doubles tournaments of her main draw debut in the Australian Open (AO) in Melbourne.

- John Bryan Ulanday

ALEX EALA

Ms. Eala is in the PWO main draw as a wildcard and her highly-anticipated home game is drawing an all-time high interest, online and on-demand.

“Being able to play here is such a privilege. One that must be earned, but a privilege nonetheless. Learning, growing and enjoying. Thank you, Melbourne,” posted the world tennis rising star on Tuesday on her official social media account.

“This year’s AO has left a lasting impression and is an experience I'll carry with me as I work moving forward. See you next year.”

Ms. Eala, ranked No. 49 in the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA), bowed to No. 99 Alycia Parks of the United States, 6-0, 3-6, 2-6, in the singles first round. With Brazilian partner Ingrid Martins (WTA doubles No. 80), Ms. Eala also crashed out in the doubles opener with a 6-7 (3-7), 6-2, 3-6 defeat to Japan’s Shuko Aoyama (WTA doubles No. 52) and Poland’s Magda Linette (WTA singles No. 50 and doubles No. 140).