MANILA — Alexandra Eala is already looking beyond her Wimbledon exit, with the Filipina tennis ace vowing to sharpen her game and build on the lessons learned from her fourth-round defeat as she continues her rise on the world stage.
Instead of dwelling on her 4-6, 6-4, 3-6 loss to Italy’s 13th seed Jasmine Paolini on Centre Court, the world No. 29 said the experience reinforced how narrow the margin is between victory and defeat at the highest level of professional tennis.
“I think Jasmine did that pretty well today. She really went for her shots. She definitely made me feel uncomfortable in certain moments of the match,” Eala said in a post-game interview.
The Filipina admitted her serve was not as effective as it had been in her earlier Wimbledon matches.
“I think my serve was not as good today as maybe other matches. But I have days like that. Everyone has days where they don’t play their best tennis.”
Despite the setback, Eala said elite matches are decided by composure and execution during critical moments.
“It comes down to details. It’s very fine details,” she said. “Sometimes it can depend on one point or two. I think it’s how you manage yourself during those moments.”
The 20-year-old stressed that maintaining the right mindset remains her biggest priority, regardless of the circumstances on court.
“You cannot control how she plays. You cannot control if there’s wind. You cannot control if it’s super hot or it’s super cold,” Eala said.
“The only thing I can control is how I approach those situations. If I’m able to approach them with bravery, with a steady mind and with intensity, then I’m able to look back and feel no regret.”
Eala also dismissed concerns over the tape on her left forearm, saying it was merely a precaution after an exhausting stretch on tour.
“The tapes are more preventive than anything. It’s been a long season. I’m just trying to make sure that the health is in check,” she said.
Although her Wimbledon campaign ended in the round of 16, Eala once again demonstrated that she belongs among the sport’s elite after defeating defending champion Iga Swiatek in the third round before eventually bowing to Paolini. Her latest Grand Slam run further boosts her confidence as she prepares for the hard-court season ahead./PN
