PHILTA submits Alex Eala’s exemption request to WTA

The Philippine Tennis Association has already filed an official request with the Women’s Tennis Association regarding Alex Eala’s possible fine and additional penalties for skipping a mandatory tournament to represent the Philippines in the 20th Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan.

The special exemption request, which seeks to spare Eala from paying a USD 10,000 (PHP 629,000) fine, is part of the government’s support for the 21-year-old Filipina ace.

The Philippine Sports Commission and Philippine Olympic Committee also expressed their unwavering backing for Eala and are coordinating closely with PHILTA Secretary-General Mayor John Rey Tiangco.

“Rest assured of the PSC’s all-out support. We will continue to assist Alex, PHILTA, and the POC in every way we can,” said PSC Chairman Patrick Gregorio.

The quick response came after Sen. Erwin Tulfo called on the PSC, POC, and PHILTA during the plenary session on Sept. 14, 2026.

Eala is obligated to compete in the China Open, a WTA 1000 event, because of her No. 18 world ranking under the organization’s rulebook.

National-team participation does not automatically exempt a player from sanctions, although a player may seek a waiver from the WTA.

“Para sa bayan ito,” added Gregorio.

“That is why we admire and support her 100%. Alex is the epitome of a world-class Filipino athlete — atin po itong tularan. Para sa bayan, laging lalaban.”

Since July, Eala has expressed her intent to reunite with the PHL tennis national team and vowed to build on her 2022 Asian Games campaign, in which she delivered a pair of bronze medals.

Before flying to Japan, Eala will first resume her WTA campaign at the upcoming Singapore Open on Sept. 21, 2026.

After Jessica Pegula’s withdrawal, Eala became the No. 3 seed and will automatically receive a first-round bye at OCBC Arena in Kallang, Singapore.