Filipina Tennis Star Recalls First Meeting with Nadal

Alexandra Eala shares story of unexpected encounter at Madrid airport and Nadal's supportive mentorship.

Mar. 28, 2026 at 9:49am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Filipina tennis player Alexandra Eala recounted her first meeting with legendary Rafael Nadal, which happened unexpectedly at the Madrid airport. Eala, who trains at Nadal's academy in Manacor, also revealed that Nadal once sent her a personal message, which she initially left on 'delivered' for four days before apologizing. Despite feeling nervous around Nadal, Eala emphasized his humility, respect, and public support for her career progress.

Why it matters

Eala's relationship with Nadal provides valuable insight into how one of the sport's greatest champions mentors and supports the next generation of talent. As Eala continues to rise in the WTA rankings, her experiences training under Nadal's guidance offer an inspiring example of the positive impact top players can have on up-and-coming stars.

The details

Eala described the memorable first encounter, saying she and her family 'chased down' Nadal at the Madrid airport on their way to his academy in Manacor. She also revealed that Nadal had once sent her a personal message, which she accidentally left unanswered for several days before apologizing. Despite occasionally feeling nervous around the tennis legend, Eala emphasized Nadal's humility, respect, and public support for her career progress.

  • In 2026, Eala is currently ranked a career-high No. 29 on the WTA Tour.
  • Eala's last match was on March 23, 2026, when she lost to world No. 14 Karolina Muchova in the 4th round of the Miami Open.
  • So far in 2026, Eala has compiled a 14-8 win-loss record, with her best result being a semifinal appearance in Auckland.

The players

Alexandra Eala

A Filipina tennis player who trains at Rafael Nadal's academy in Manacor, Spain. She is currently ranked a career-high No. 29 on the WTA Tour.

Rafael Nadal

One of the greatest tennis players of all time, Nadal owns and operates a tennis academy in Manacor, Spain, where Eala trains.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“So my parents and my brother, and I, we flew over. In the Madrid airport, we just happen to pass by Rafa on the way to his Academy. We all chased him down... And yeah, he took a pic with us, so that was the first interaction I remember in Spain.”

— Alexandra Eala, Filipina Tennis Player

“Rafa sent me a message, but I saw it four days after. I left him on delivered for four days and I almost died. But he was super nice. He got it. First of all, I apologized for getting back to him so late. I said, 'Thank you' and I am fortunate enough to have seen him many times.”

— Alexandra Eala, Filipina Tennis Player

What’s next

Eala will look to build on her strong start to the 2026 season and continue climbing the WTA rankings. Her performance at the upcoming Grand Slam events will be closely watched as she aims to make a deep run and solidify her status as one of the rising stars in women's tennis.

The takeaway

Eala's relationship with Nadal demonstrates the positive impact that established champions can have on the next generation of talent. Despite her initial nerves, Eala has benefited greatly from Nadal's mentorship and support, which has helped propel her rapid rise in the WTA rankings.