Jessica Pegula praises Alex Eala's impact on tennis

The world No. 5 lauds the Filipina teenager's growing fanbase and maturity on tour

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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After winning the Dubai Tennis Championships, world No. 5 Jessica Pegula spoke highly of rising star Alex Eala, highlighting the Filipina teenager's ability to draw large and passionate crowds, as well as her composure and maturity in handling the weight of expectation from her supporters.

Why it matters

Eala's rapid rise and popularity are seen as a positive development for the sport of tennis, as she inspires a new demographic of fans and helps grow the game's global reach, particularly in the Philippines.

The details

Pegula noted how Eala's home country has rallied behind her, packing stadiums wherever she plays. The American also praised Eala's grace and appreciation for her supporters, as well as her ability to maintain a good attitude and composure despite the intense interest. Coco Gauff also recently acknowledged Eala's impact in bringing new fans to tennis.

  • Eala broke out on the professional tour last year in Miami.
  • Eala's matches have been overcrowded, such as in Australia where she was put on too small of a court.
  • Pegula and Eala faced off in a recent match.

The players

Jessica Pegula

An American professional tennis player who is currently ranked world No. 5. She recently won the Dubai Tennis Championships.

Alex Eala

A 17-year-old Filipina professional tennis player who has been making a rapid rise on the tour and drawing large, passionate crowds of supporters from her home country.

Coco Gauff

An American professional tennis player who has also acknowledged Eala's ability to bring new fans to the sport.

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What they’re saying

“Yeah, Alex is amazing. The way she's been able to pack stadiums and the way her country supports her is something special. She handles it so maturely, with such grace. She seems so appreciative of all the support she gets. Always seems to have a good head on her shoulders and a good attitude about it.”

— Jessica Pegula, World No. 5 tennis player (yardbarker.com)

“I'd like to thank Alex for bringing a new demographic to the sport. I really appreciate it. I think it's great. I know sometimes it's tough when you're playing against a 'home' crowd, but I think that it's great for the sport, so keep being enthusiastic, and keep rooting for your player.”

— Coco Gauff, Professional tennis player (yardbarker.com)

The takeaway

Alex Eala's rapid rise and growing popularity on the tennis tour are seen as a positive development for the sport, as she inspires a new generation of fans, particularly in her home country of the Philippines, and helps to expand tennis' global reach and appeal.