After an exhilarating weekend in Macau, Alexandra Eala is gearing up for another exciting pre-AO exhibition, this time at the prestigious Kooyong Classic.
The 20-year-old Filipina tennis star, who recently made waves at the MGM Tennis Macau Masters, is now set to take on the world in New Zealand. Her journey to the top continues as she prepares for the 2026 season, starting with the WTA 250 event in Auckland.
Despite her impressive performance in Macau, where she played two matches, Eala chose not to sign up for any WTA tournaments for the second week. However, her absence from the WTA circuit will be short-lived, as she's set to make her mark at the Kooyong Classic, just before the Australian Open.
The Kooyong Classic is a star-studded affair, and Eala's participation is a testament to her rising status in the tennis world. She joins an elite group of players, including the 2024 Paris Olympics silver medalist Donna Vekic, the former world No. 5 Daniela Hantuchova, and the home player Priscilla Hon.
The 2026 edition of the Kooyong Classic will take place from January 13-15, providing an exciting opportunity for tennis enthusiasts to witness Eala's talent and determination up close.
Eala's experience in Macau was truly memorable. She faced off against Mirra Andreeva in a singles match and also participated in a mixed doubles match. However, the highlight of her trip came when she and Juncheng Shang took on Alejandro Davidovich Fokina and Wu Yibing, resulting in a thrilling match against two men.
Despite the unusual circumstances, Eala and Shang delivered an exceptional performance, showcasing their skills before Davidovich Fokina and Wu secured a tight 7-5 7-6 (1) victory. Eala described the experience as a 'pleasure,' especially playing mixed doubles with her childhood friend and tournament buddy, Jerry.
As Eala continues to make her mark on the tennis world, her journey from Macau to Kooyong is a testament to her resilience and talent. With her eye on the prize, she's poised to make a lasting impact on the sport, leaving fans eager to see what the future holds for this rising star.
