It’s official: the tennis world’s eyes are all on Alex Eala. Most recently, the 19-year-old sensation stunned at the 2025 Miami Open by defeating Iga Swiatek, the World No. 2. But who exactly is Alex, and what’s behind her rise to stardom? Here are 8 things you need to know about the athlete putting the Philippines on the global tennis map.

1. Athleticism runs in her veins

Growing up in Quezon City, she was inspired by her family’s passion for sports. Her mother, Rizza Maniego-Eala, was a competitive swimmer and snagged a bronze medal in the 1985 Southeast Asian Games. Her older brother, Miko, is also a tennis player training at the Rafa Nadal Academy. Her late grandfather, Roberto Maniego, was her very first coach. Her uncle, Noli Eala, was previously the Philippine Sports Commission chairperson and Philippine Basketball Association commissioner. It’s safe to say winning is in her DNA.

2. She was a tennis prodigy from an early age

At just 12, Alex announced herself to the tennis world by winning the prestigious Les Petits As in 2018, a tournament known for spotting future stars. The same year, Alex took a bold step toward her goal, moving to Spain to train at the Rafa Nadal Academy. Yep, she started her pro-level training at Nadal’s very own turf.

3. She trains at the world-class Rafa Nadal Academy

Alex has been training at the prestigious Rafa Nadal Academy in Mallorca since she was 13. Surrounded by world-class coaching and the influence of Rafael Nadal himself, Alex quickly adopted a disciplined and mentally strong playing style. The academy, known for producing champions, undoubtedly shaped her into the powerhouse she is today.

4. She’s a history maker

At 14, Alex became the first Filipina to win a junior Grand Slam title by clinching the 2020 Australian Open juniors doubles championship with partner Priska Nugroho. By 17, Alex became the first Filipino to win a junior Grand Slam singles title after dominating the 2022 US Open girls’ singles competition.

5. Climbing the ITF Pro Circuit rankings

Before making her mark on the WTA stage, Alex was already thriving in the ITF Pro Circuit. At just 19, she boasts five ITF singles titles and three doubles titles, reaching an all-time high career ranking of World No. 134. There’s no denying her growing dominance as she transitions to senior competitions.

6. Breaking barriers for Filipino tennis

Did you know Alex was also the first Filipino to beat a top-10 player? Her victory over Madison Keys at the 2025 Miami Open wasn’t just personal. It’s already inspiring countless Filipino youth to pick up a racquet.

7. A champion and a role model

Alex Eala is not just about tennis matches and trophies. She dreams of inspiring the next generation of Filipino athletes. She grew up admiring Manny Pacquiao for putting the Philippines on the global map, and now she’s doing the same for tennis.

8. She’s only getting started!

Alex’s accomplishments make her seem like a seasoned veteran, but she’s just getting warmed up. She’s yet to fully lock in consistent appearances in Grand Slam main draws as a senior—but with her remarkable work ethic, mentorship under some of the best coaches, and recent performances, her potential appears limitless.