'I hope you’re ready for a good fight': Alex Eala on Wimbledon 'dream match'

Alex Eala soaked in the grandeur of Wimbledon’s iconic Centre Court on Monday — a day before making her highly anticipated main draw debut against defending champion Barbora Krejčíková.

Moments before men’s titleholder Carlos Alcaraz took to the court, Eala was able to spend a few minutes on the legendary grass stage, using the time to get a feel for the surface and the stadium that has inspired generations of tennis players. 

With her father Mike Eala and coaching team in she also went up to the players’ box — the same seats where her team will cheer her on during Tuesday’s match.

“It’s my dream match. It’s the match that everybody, or at least me, I used to dream about when I was young,” said the 20-year-old Filipina. 

“I’m playing Centre Court of Wimbledon on my debut against the defending champion. I couldn’t ask for more. I’m gonna enjoy it and remember it forever.”

Eala’s Wimbledon debut follows a career-best week in Eastbourne, where she reached her first WTA final and climbed to a new high of World No. 56. Despite the milestone, Eala has kept her focus locked on the task ahead.

“It’s tough because last week was so emotional. But it helped that it was positive — my first final, so that’s incredible for me. I’m still super happy and recognize what I did,” she said. “But, yeah, like I said, I’ll have time after Wimbledon to celebrate that.”

On Sunday, Eala had a light training session, including mobility work, stretching, and a 45-minute practice hit. She followed it up with a solid one-hour session at Raynes Park on Monday plus some fitness.

“Siyempre pagod, pero 'yan talaga — that’s the life of a tennis player,” she said with a smile. "I’m sure I’ll get extra fuel and a third, fourth, or fifth wind from the motivation I feel for tomorrow.”

The Filipina star is also super thankful for the support she’s receiving from fellow countrymen in the UK. Many Filipinos are expected to cheer her on live, and she’s set to wear a special sampaguita-inspired hair tie for the occasion.

“Mga kababayan, abangan niyo yung laro ko bukas,” Eala said. “For sure, I’m ready. I hope you guys are ready for a good fight — and enjoy.”