Alex Eala training with Coach Joan Bosch | Photo by Dyan Castillejo, ABS News

Filipina tennis star Alex Eala may have fallen short in her recent match against world No. 2 Iga Swiatek, but her performance on the clay court left her proud—and her team even more determined for what lies ahead.

“Masaya ako na lumaban ako ng todo. Hindi ako bumigay hanggang dulo,” Eala said. “Of course, it’s hard to swallow a loss, especially a tight one. But in the end, positive, positive. Yeah.”

Eala held her own during several rallies and crucial moments, pushing Swiatek deep into the match. Despite the result, she walked away with valuable lessons.

Swiatek on Eala's challenge in Madrid: ‘It wasn’t easy’

Alex Eala gives Swiatek a scare before falling short in Madrid

“What I can say for sure is that I feel she had a better level than me in certain important moments of the game,” Eala admitted. “Normally, these technical or tactical things—I’ll have to ponder for a bit.”

“With the heat of the match, things can become blurry,” she added.

Her coach at the Rafa Nadal Academy, Joan Bosch, echoed the sentiment.

“I saw a good Iga, especially finishing the four-all,” Bosch said. “And I think now we’re still learning how to deal with these top players when they’re at their best.”

Still, Eala continues to show she belongs on the same stage as the sport’s elite.

“Of course, masaya rin ako na napatunayan ko sa sarili kong andoon ako at kaya ko rin lumaban sa mga top players. Iga is one of the best clay players right now—possibly in history. So I’m happy. The goal going into this match was to show my level, to keep it,” the 19-year-old said.

That same goal was underscored by Coach Bosch.

“I told her before the match, I don’t mind if you win or lose, but we need to show that we are here for a reason.”

“We need to show that you have the level. And if you have the level, it means you can compete and try. That’s what I’m happy about with this match,” he added.

With Rome and her Grand Slam main draw debut at the French Open on the horizon, Eala is embracing the momentum from Madrid.

“I think this was a positive week. I think I’m playing well,” she said. “Rome, of course, is such a beautiful tournament—I’ve heard so many good things. I’m so excited to be there. I mean, it’s Rome. Who doesn’t love to be there? And of course, the French Open is something I’m really looking forward to. It’s my first main draw appearance.”

Coach Bosch stressed the importance of constant improvement as Eala continues her rise on tour.

“We want to be the best. So we need to try. We have nothing to lose,” he said. “We have six good months ahead, from now to December, to change a few things. Tennis is evolving every day. We can’t stay at the same level, because people are starting to know Alex more. And for sure, we’re also getting to know the opponents. That means sometimes, fear or doubt can creep in.”

For Eala, staying grounded and motivated is essential.

“There were tough moments, not just in this match,” she shared. “What I try to hold onto during those moments is the fun I have on court—trying to pump myself up, stay happy, and smile.”

“It’s tough sometimes when there are a lot of emotions, when you can’t get the ball or the timing. But yeah, I love the sport. I’m so blessed and lucky to be doing what I’m doing.”

At the core of her tennis journey is the unwavering support of her family and team.

“Sa akin, sobrang halaga ng pamilya,” she said. “My parents, my brother, and of course my team—my chosen family—are the ones keeping me grounded. They’re the ones making things a bit lighter.”

To her fellow Filipinos, Eala shared her heartfelt thanks and determination.

“Hello, mga kababayan. Maraming, maraming salamat sa suporta,” she said. “Next time, tuloy-tuloy ang laban. See you again soon.”