The Australian Open tennis tournament witnessed a unique scene as fans mobbed 'national hero' Alexandra Eala at practice court 22. The 20-year-old Filipina tennis player has surged in popularity, becoming the first Filipina to win a grand slam singles match at the 2025 US Open. This achievement has captivated the hearts of the Filipino community in Australia, with hundreds of fans gathering at her practice session on Sunday. Local fan Jan Marie Cal has been following Eala's journey since her junior days and her time at the Rafa Nadal Academy. She believes Eala has become a national hero, comparable to the fame of former professional boxer Manny Pacquiao. Cal highlights Eala's hard work and her ability to connect with the Filipino culture, describing her as a 'jolly' and 'hard-working' athlete. The practice court was packed with Filipino fans cheering and calling out throughout Eala's hour-long session. Despite the large crowd, Eala greeted fans with a smile, taking time to pose for photos and sign autographs. Her pre-tournament press conference revealed the significant support she has received from Filipinos in Australia. The Australian Open blog and Sport newsletter provide ongoing updates, results, and expert analysis, ensuring fans stay informed throughout the tournament.
