Senate supports Alex Eala's decision to represent PH in Asian Games despite potential penalties

The Senate has thrown its support behind Alex Eala’s decision to represent the country in the 2026 Asian Games in Japan.

The 21-year-old ace could be facing potential sanctions for skipping the mandatory WTA1000 China Open to compete in the Asiad, where she is aiming to win gold and strengthen her bid for a spot in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

The Philippine Tennis Association (PHILTA) has requested an exemption for Eala with the Women's Tennis Association (WTA), which Senator Bong Go, who chairs the Committee on Sports, rallied behind.

"I laud and fully support Alex Eala's decision to represent the Philippines in the 2026 Asian Games. Alex had the opportunity to compete in the China Open, a mandatory WTA1000 tournament, but she chose instead to represent our country and compete for the flag even if there were possible fines and penalties," Go said in a mix of English and Filipino on Monday.

"We respect and understand the rules and processes of the Women's Tennis Association, but at the same time, I join the Philippine Tennis Association in respectfully appealing to the WTA to consider the exceptional circumstances of Alex' case and grant her the requested exemption from any penalty or sanction."

By choosing to represent the country in the Asian Games, Eala, currently the highest-ranked Filipina tennis player ever at No. 18, is set to receive zero ranking points from the China Open and could also face a monetary fine.

But Go believes Eala’s situation is unique, noting that the Filipina star is putting her professional career on hold to represent the country and compete alongside her fellow national team athletes.

“In my opinion, an athlete should not be penalized for choosing to represent our flag and country. We admire Alex for choosing to represent the Philippines despite the demands of her professional schedule," Go added.

"Her decision reflects the kind of patriotism and commitment to country that all Filipinos should emulate. She is an inspiration not only on the court but in being a Filipino."

Senator Erwin Tulfo also called on the Philippine Sports Commission and the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) to support Eala, saying an athlete should not have to shoulder the burden of sacrificing for the country alone.

“As a lawmaker, we are calling on the Philippines Sports Commission and Philippine Olympic Committee to extend legal and transparent financial support for Alex Eala to pay for a possible US$10,000 fine from the WTA," Tulfo said in a mix of English and Filipino.

“We emphasize that a young athlete must not bear the sacrifice for the country on their own.”

—Bea Micaller/JMB, GMA News