The biggest story in tennis this summer has been that of Alexandra Eala, the 21-year-old Filipina who has captivated fans and been enthusiastically embraced by her compatriots at every tournament she’s appeared in. Opponents have found themselves up against not only her talent and drive, which are considerable, but also boisterous crowds that are so passionate in their support that they seem almost hostile to the woman on the other side of the net (applauding, for instance, her double faults).
You’d think this would create resentment, friction, bad blood, and yet what we’ve witnessed this summer has been the opposite. Jessica Pegula, holding the runner-up trophy at the tournament in DC that Eala won, spoke appreciatively of the Filipino fans, and the way that tennis is making new inroads around the world. A few days later in Toronto, Caty McNally lost to Eala in a tough three-setter and then thanked the rising star at the net for “letting” her be a part of such an amazing atmosphere. Amanda Anisimova, who beat Eala this week in Cincinnati, acknowledged in her on-court interview after the match that she was not the crowd favorite, noting that Eala is extremely popular, then adding, “deservedly so.”
Three female athletes – two just moments from a disappointing loss – demonstrating graciousness and a remarkable generosity of spirit.
