Alexandra Eala avoids WTA penalties after choosing Asian Games

Filipina tennis player Alexandra Eala will not face penalties from the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) after choosing to represent the Philippines at the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, instead of competing in the mandatory China Open.

Philippine Tennis Association (PHILTA) executive director Tonette Mendoza confirmed during a Senate Committee on Sports hearing that no financial fines or ranking point sanctions were imposed. PHILTA had previously contacted the WTA to request an exemption, explaining that Eala’s decision to prioritize national representation was voluntary and not the result of external pressure. While the WTA initially inquired about the nature of the decision and the tournament's Olympic qualifying status, the federation has not issued any subsequent penalties.

Following her bronze medal performance in women's singles at the Asian Games, Eala is scheduled to return to the professional tour at the Wuhan Open.