Alex Eala receives wild card to prestigious Miami Open

FILIPINA tennis sensation Alex Eala has a chance to compete on one of tennis’ biggest stages after she received a wild card to the 2021 Miami Open qualifiers set on March 22 to April 4 at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida.

Eala’s entry was announced by the Rafael Nadal Academy -- where she is a scholar -- on Tuesday, March 16.

The Miami Open has attracted the biggest names in women’s tennis with the world’s top players such as no. 1 ranked Ashleigh Barty, no. 2 Naomi Osaka and no. 3 Simona Halep slated to compete.

Eala, who is ranked no. 736 in the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) singles rankings, will have the odds against her as she needs to rack up two wins to make it to the main draw. However, the 15-year-old is excited to strut her skills in the competition.

“Looking forward to an awesome experience!” Eala said on her Facebook page.

This development is the latest feather in the youngster’s cap. She opened 2021 by winning her very first professional championship in the W15 Manacor. She then followed that up with three straight quarterfinal finishes. (JNP)