Alexandra Eala faces WTA fine for competing in Asian Games

Philippine tennis star Alexandra Eala faces a potential $10,000 fine and loss of ranking points from the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA). The penalty stems from her decision to compete in the Asian Games in Nagoya, Japan, which coincides with the mandatory WTA 1000 China Open in Beijing.

Eala, currently ranked 18th in the world, has chosen to represent the Philippines as a flag bearer in Nagoya, a move that could also secure her qualification for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. While the Philippine Tennis Federation applied for an exemption, the WTA has thus far denied the request.

The Philippine Sport Commission and the national Olympic Committee have expressed full support for Eala. Meanwhile, former professional players have publicly criticized the WTA, suggesting that sanctioning an athlete for representing her country is counterproductive.