Alexandra Maniego Eala — better known as Alex Eala — has rapidly moved from being a promising junior to one of the most talked-about young players on the WTA Tour.
Hailing from Quezon City, Philippines, she made history for Filipino tennis by winning junior majors and breaking through on the professional stage with high-profile wins and a dynamic training background.
Her story is equal parts national pride and international promise.
Profile Data
- Full Name: Alexandra Maniego Eala.
- Stage Name: Alex Eala.
- Born: May 23, 2005.
- Age: 20 (as of Sept 6, 2025).
- Birthplace: Quezon City, Philippines.
- Nationality: Filipino.
- Occupation: Professional tennis player (WTA Tour).
- Height: 5’9″ (1.75 m).
- Parents: Mike Eala (father) and Rosemarie “Rizza” Maniego-Eala (mother).
- Siblings: Michael “Miko” Eala (brother).
Early Life & Family Roots
Born on May 23, 2005, Alex grew up in a family with a strong sporting background. Her mother, Rosemarie “Rizza” Maniego-Eala, was a competitive swimmer and later worked in corporate finance; her father, Mike Eala, kept a lower public profile while supporting Alex’s tennis journey. Her brother, Michael (often called Miko), has also pursued tennis at the collegiate level — a clear sign that sport runs in the family.
Junior Career — Early Signs of Greatness
Alex’s junior résumé reads like the CV of a future champion. She won prestigious junior events and climbed to a top ITF junior ranking, culminating in a landmark victory at the 2022 US Open Girls’ Singles, where she became the first Filipino to win a junior major singles title. Her junior success included doubles titles and excellent showings across the Grand Slam junior events — a foundation that signalled she could transition to the senior professional tour.
Move to Europe & Training at Rafa Nadal Academy
At a pivotal age, Eala moved to Spain to train at the Rafa Nadal Academy in Mallorca — a decision that put her in one of the world’s most competitive training environments and exposed her to elite coaching and sparring partners. Her development under coaches including Joan Bosch has been frequently noted by the WTA and other tennis outlets, and the Rafa Nadal Academy has been central to polishing her game and conditioning. This combination of natural talent and top-tier training fast-tracked her rise.
Professional Breakthrough — Miami Open & Top-100
While junior success hinted at potential, it was Alex’s 2025 WTA performances that announced her arrival on the big stage. At the Miami Open 2025 she entered as a wildcard and produced an eye-catching run, defeating high-profile opponents and reaching the semifinals — a sequence that dramatically raised her international profile. That breakthrough helped her become the first Filipino to crack the WTA top 100 and later reach a career-high ranking in the mid-50s — milestones that rewrote Philippine tennis history.
Playing Style & Strengths
Eala is a left-hander with a two-handed backhand and a game that blends intelligent counterpunching with the willingness to attack when the chance arises. Observers describe her as composed under pressure, tactically astute, and comfortable on hard courts — her preferred surface. Her movement, shot selection, and mental toughness have been highlighted after several wins over established tour players.
Off-Court: Endorsements & Influence
Even before her senior breakthrough, Alex attracted endorsements and media attention. She has held sponsorships with major sports brands and served as an ambassador for Filipino brands since childhood. Her rising star status has made her a sought-after face for marketing and a role model for young Filipino athletes dreaming of international sporting careers.
Career Highlights & Records (selected)
- 2022: US Open Girls’ Singles Champion — first Filipino junior major singles winner.
- 2025 (Miami Open): Semifinalist — breakthrough WTA performance.
- 2025: First Filipino woman to enter the WTA top 100 and later reach a career-high ranking in the top 60 (June 30, 2025).
Stats Snapshot (recent)
- Career-high singles ranking: No. 56 (June 30, 2025).
- Plays: Left-handed (two-handed backhand).
- Prize money & WTA record: See official WTA profile for up-to-date figures.
FAQs — People Also Ask
How old is Alex Eala?
Alexandra Eala was born on May 23, 2005, which makes her 20 years old as of September 6, 2025.
Where was Alex Eala born?
She was born in Quezon City in Metro Manila, Philippines.
What is Alex Eala’s highest WTA ranking?
Her career-high singles ranking is No. 56 (achieved June 30, 2025).
Did Alex Eala win a junior Grand Slam?
Yes — she won the 2022 US Open girls’ singles title.
Where did Alex train?
Alex trained at the Rafa Nadal Academy in Manacor, Mallorca, Spain.
Conclusion
Alexandra “Alex” Eala is a modern success story in tennis — a player who combined home-grown talent with elite international training to become a trailblazer for Philippine tennis. From junior Grand Slam success to WTA breakthroughs and a top-60 ranking, her trajectory is a reminder that world-class athletes can emerge from any country when talent, support, and opportunity converge. Keep an eye on Eala: she’s not just rewriting Filipino sports history — she’s building a global tennis career with many chapters still to come.