Venus Williams Brands Alex Eala a “World Star”
ALEX EALA – Losing a match did not stop Venus Williams from recognizing the remarkable talent and character of Filipina tennis star Alex Eala.
Tennis icon Venus Williams has expressed her admiration for Filipina tennis sensation Alex Eala after the two teamed up in the Women’s Doubles competition at the National Bank Open.
Although their campaign ended in the Round of 32, Williams remained impressed with her young partner and expressed hope that they would have more opportunities to play together. The pair suffered a 4-6, 3-6 defeat against Liudmila Samsonova and Miyu Kato.
Their appearance at the National Bank Open marked the second time Williams and Eala had joined forces in a doubles tournament. Their first partnership came at the Bad Homburg Open, where they made an impressive run to the semifinals.
Williams revealed that she was the one who initially reached out to Eala about forming a doubles team. She said she had been interested in playing alongside the rising Filipina star and enjoyed their time together on the court.
“Yeah, I was targeting Alex and we had the best time playing. We almost played in DC and then we had an amazing chance to play here. I think we played really well. We just fell a little bit short, but we were in there and all those games–– all those deciding points–– we just didn’t have the luck today,” she expressed.
For Eala, receiving an invitation from one of the sport’s biggest legends was an unforgettable opportunity. She said sharing the court with Williams had already been a memorable experience, even before they became doubles partners.
“The fact that I get to play doubles with Venus is like an amazing highlight of my career. I remember when we played in Auckland, I was already so excited that I had gotten to share the court with her. So, to be able to partner up with you, Venus, I mean, amazing chance and I guess it shows kind of how far I’ve been able to come,” Alex added.
Williams also praised Eala beyond her abilities as a tennis player, highlighting her personality and professionalism.
“It was amazing to play under the lights. I think we both thrive in pressure situations and you know Alex is a world star. She’s just incredible and besides the fact of her tennis, she’s an incredible person, well-spoken, and just an impressive young lady. I like being around those kinds of things. I think we both lift each other up,” Venus expressed.
While another partnership has yet to be confirmed, Williams believes their chemistry can improve with more practice and matches.
“I think we both have the same intent to just go after it so we matched that energy there and I think with more opportunities to practice and play matches together, we’ll really sync. So it’s just very early now––we’re just getting the hang of it. I love seeing those shots fly past me when I’m at the net,” Venus continued.
Eala likewise credited Williams for helping her learn, particularly when it comes to mindset and competitive energy.
“I think when I’m on court with Venus, there’s a lot I can learn about mentality and I guess when I’m on court with her, it also pushes me to kind of match her energy. When you’re on court with someone who plays like her, you want to kind of give it your all. I think I did my best today. Like what she said, we fell short, but we had some great points,” Alex expressed.
Williams is set to move on to the Cincinnati Open, where she will reunite with her sister Serena Williams. She even suggested that Eala should consider teaming up with Serena someday.
“I think Alex has got to put on her list to play with Serena one day then she can complete the Williams sisters,” Venus quipped.
Eala, meanwhile, will continue competing in the Women’s Singles tournament at the National Bank Open, where she is scheduled to face American Caty McNally in the third round.
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