Alex Eala eyeing LA Olympics if she takes tennis gold at the Asian Games

NAGOYA, Japan - Tennis sensation Alex Eala is on the brink of securing two prestigious titles at once. If she triumphs at the upcoming Asian Games, Eala will automatically secure a spot in the 2028 LA Olympics. This presents a unique opportunity for the Philippines national athlete. Eala, currently ranked No. 18 on the WTA rankings, reached the semifinals of the Asian Games by defeating Taiwan's Joanna Garland 7-5, 6-0.

Her next match against Wang Xiyu of China awaits. Upon winning, Eala will advance to Friday’s final. "The Olympics is a dream for me to be able to compete there, to represent my country," Eala expressed. She had to withdraw from the China Open in Beijing, a mandatory WTA 1000 event, to qualify for the Asian Games. Although she might face a fine of $10,000, Eala is determined and has received support from fellow players like Zhang Shuai of China, No. 57 on the WTA rankings.

"It is incredible that the two competitions are in the same weeks," Zhang commented, acknowledging the challenge Eala is facing. Despite the difficulty, Eala has chosen her path: competing in the Asian Games.