'Eala Mania' great for tennis, says Hall of Famer Andy Roddick

Tennis Hall of Famer Andy Roddick is pleased with the growing popularity of Filipina star Alex Eala.

On his 'Served' podcast, Roddick and journalist Jon Wertheim discussed the "Eala Mania" sweeping the Philippines and the tennis world.

“Eala Mania is fun,” Roddick said.

“When you have watch parties in arenas around your country for a fourth round match, I am in.”

Roddick described Eala’s rise as a movement.

“I am here for Eala Mania. It’s great for tennis. She is creating a movement of a sect of tennis fans that largely didn’t exist a couple of years ago,” he added.

The Eala mania is here to stay 🍿🔥

Alex Eala taking down defending champions and cracking the Top 30, she isn't just a fun story anymore, she's a movement. 🎾

Full episode of Served out now! Link in bio! 🔗 pic.twitter.com/D8EZdChwtv

— Served with Andy Roddick (@Served_Podcast) July 15, 2026

The former world No. 1 and US Open champion said fans should continue following Eala’s journey as she climbs the rankings.

“It was a fun story when she broke out at Miami. We wanted more of it. She’s top 30, beating players at majors. It went from a fun story to a very real story and a phenomenon and we should all grab it, embrace it, love it, shake it, be thankful for it,” he added.

“She is single-handedly bringing more fans into tennis in a very committed and passionate way.”

Eala is set to begin her North American swing later this month.

—JKC, GMA News