Here’s a rewritten version of the news:
Mats Wilander Predicts Big Future for Alex Eala, Hailing Her ‘Mystical’ Tennis Style
Alex Eala has been tipped for greatness by tennis legend Mats Wilander, who believes the rising star has the potential to become one of the sport’s best. Wilander compared the teenager’s unique style of play to that of former world No. 1 Marcelo Rios, praising her extraordinary skill and key strengths.
Eala, who had a breakthrough performance at the Miami Open, made waves in the tennis world after defeating three Grand Slam champions. Ranked No. 140 heading into the tournament, the 19-year-old was granted a wildcard entry into the prestigious WTA 1000 event, where she stunned 2017 French Open champion Jelena Ostapenko, reigning Australian Open champion Madison Keys, and five-time Grand Slam winner Iga Swiatek. This impressive run took her to the semi-finals, making her the first Filipina to reach this stage in a WTA Tour event, before her journey was halted by Jessica Pegula.
Thanks to her semi-final appearance, Eala shot up the WTA rankings, climbing 65 spots to No. 75, breaking into the top 100 for the first time.
Wilander, speaking to TNT Sports, was particularly impressed by Eala’s “mystical” tennis.
“With Alexandra Eala, we’re talking about someone who has hands given by God,” the seven-time Grand Slam winner said. “She understands the game as well as anyone on tour. She reminds me of Marcelo Rios, where the talent just oozes from her fingers and hands. She can do anything. And of course, she’s left-handed.”
Wilander went on to highlight how Eala’s game stands out in the women’s field.
“In the women’s game, it’s amazing to have someone who does things that maybe [Aryna] Sabalenka or Swiatek aren’t known for. They’re great at other things, but Eala brings this mystical quality to tennis that leaves us all in awe. It’s like, ‘How does she do that? How does she understand tennis so well? How does she pull off those shots?'”
He drew parallels to John McEnroe’s influence in the 1980s, saying, “The feel, the understanding, it’s just incredible. She’s doing something very special.”
Swiatek, after her quarter-final loss to Eala, also admitted that the Filipina’s style took her by surprise.
“I didn’t expect her to play so flat,” the world No. 2 said. “But she was really aggressive, kept her focus, and some of her shots were like out of nowhere. She clearly has the intentions to push forward, and it worked for her today.”
With such glowing praise and her meteoric rise, Alex Eala is clearly one to watch as she continues her journey toward the top of women’s tennis.
Leave a Reply