EXPLAINER: Why Alex Eala could be sanctioned for skipping China Open for Asian Games

Alexandra "Alex" Eala’s decision to prioritize the 2026 Asian Games over the WTA 1000 China Open could come at a price as the Filipina tennis star risks sanctions for skipping one of the tour’s mandatory events.

Under the 2026 Women's Tennis Association rulebook, players who qualify for a WTA 1000 mandatory tournament, such as the China Open, are required to compete, barring certain exemptions like those related to age, long-term injury, and other provisions.

In this case, the 21-year-old Filipina is automatically qualified for the China Open by virtue of her current world ranking of No. 18.

There are, however, exceptions. A player may be allowed to compete in a non-WTA event if she secures a waiver from the WTA and meets its criteria for an exception.

This is what the Philippine Tennis Association (PHILTA) is currently discussing with the WTA as it seeks a waiver for the Filipino tennis sensation, who is preparing to represent the Philippines at the Asian Games. The games are scheduled for September 19 to October 4 in Japan, overlapping with the China Open that will run from September 30 to October 11 in Beijing.

READ MORE | Alex Eala's Asian Games participation in talks with WTA, says PHILTA

PHILTA secretary-general and Navotas City Mayor John Tiangco told GMA News that the federation has already informed WTA and is seeking an exemption for Eala, who has already expressed excitement over her Asian Games redemption tour.

What the WTA rulebook says

Failure to see action in mandatory events could result in a zero ranking-point penalty, which would count toward a player’s singles ranking.

The WTA also has provisions penalizing players who participate in non-WTA events during the same period as a mandatory tournament.

According to the rules, players are not permitted to participate in a non-WTA event if it is scheduled within 60 days before or 30 days after a WTA 1000 mandatory tournament.

A violation comes with a hefty financial penalty. Players ranked No. 1 to No. 10 face a $100,000 fine, while those ranked No. 11 to No. 20 are subject to a $75,000 penalty.

—JMB, GMA News