Alex Eala Gears Up for Three Consecutive WTA 250 Events in Asia
Filipina tennis star Alexandra “Alex” Eala is set to compete in three straight WTA 250 tournaments across Asia beginning next week, marking another crucial stretch in her professional career as the season draws to a close.
A WTA 250 tournament is part of the main Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) Tour, awarding 250 ranking points to each event’s champion. These tournaments attract rising stars and seasoned competitors, offering valuable opportunities to gain ranking points and experience.
Recent Performances and Rankings
Eala, currently ranked world No. 54, has been making steady progress in her transition from the junior circuit to the professional level. After her campaign at the 2024 US Open, Eala joined a series of WTA 125 tournaments, where she showcased her improving form and consistency.
Her recent results include a championship title at the Guadalajara 125, a semifinal appearance at the Jingshan Tennis Open, and a quarterfinal finish at the Suzhou WTA 125. In addition, she competed in the SP Open, a WTA 250 tournament in Brazil, where she reached the quarterfinals before bowing out.
Earlier this month, Eala attempted to qualify for the Wuhan Open, a WTA 1000 event, but fell in the opening round of the qualifiers to Japan’s Moyuka Uchijima. Despite the setback, the 20-year-old remains focused on finishing the season strong, with three WTA 250 events lined up to help her climb further in the rankings.
Japan Women’s Open (October 13–19)
Eala will open her Asian campaign at the Japan Women’s Open, where she will compete against a strong field that includes Naomi Osaka, a multiple-time Grand Slam champion; Leylah Fernandez, a US Open finalist; and Cristina Bucsa of Spain, who previously defeated Eala at the US Open. This tournament will serve as a test of Eala’s resilience against experienced and higher-ranked opponents.
Guangzhou Open (October 20–26)
After Japan, Eala will head to China to play in the Guangzhou Open, another WTA 250 event. The field is expected to include Lucia Bronzetti, whom Eala faced in the Eastbourne Open Round of 32, and Tatjana Maria, a seasoned German player she has frequently shared draws with since 2023. Eala’s familiarity with several players in the lineup may provide a strategic edge as she seeks to advance deeper in the tournament.
Hong Kong Tennis Open (October 27 – November 2)
Eala will wrap up her Asian swing at the Hong Kong Tennis Open, which boasts a highly competitive roster. The tournament lineup features Osaka, Fernandez, Bucsa, former US Open champion Emma Raducanu, Eastbourne opponents Varvara Gracheva and Maya Joint, and Clara Tauson, whom Eala defeated at the US Open. Competing in such a strong field gives Eala another chance to measure her progress against some of the WTA’s most recognizable names.
Focused on Building Momentum
The trio of tournaments offers Eala the chance to end her 2024 season with momentum and confidence. While she continues to refine her game against elite competition, these appearances in Asia could play a significant role in solidifying her place among the sport’s rising stars.
At only 20 years old, Eala remains one of the most promising players from Southeast Asia, combining disciplined play and competitive determination. Her participation in three consecutive WTA 250 events underscores her commitment to gaining experience and ranking points as she builds toward future Grand Slam appearances and higher tour placements.