Alex Eala shares the most important lesson she learned from Venus Williams, and it might just help her win the US Open.
Alex Eala has shared a valuable lesson she learned from seven-time Grand Slam champion Venus Williams as she aims for success at the US Open.
The young Filipina player is having a breakout season on the WTA tour. Just before the recent big hardcourt events, she won her first Tour title in Washington.
At 21, Eala comes into the US Open with a strong record against Top 10 players, including a win over Jessica Pegula to claim the Washington 500 title. Many believe she can beat anyone when she’s playing her best.
She faced some tough losses recently, falling in the Round of 16 to Belinda Bencic in Toronto and in the Round of 32 to Amanda Anisimova in Cincinnati. But her tough performance in Washington has fans excited.
If Eala wins the US Open this September, she would be the second biggest underdog to do so this decade, after British star Emma Raducanu. However, she hopes her career path will be even more positive than Raducanu’s.
Eala also played in the US Open Mixed Doubles with Canadian Felix Auger-Aliassime and had an exhibition match with her dad, Mike, before the tournament started. She was even seen training with Venus Williams before the singles began.
With plenty of court time behind her, Eala shared in an interview what she has learned from Williams. The two were doubles partners at the Bad Homburg Open in June, reaching the quarterfinals, and teamed up again in Toronto.
“Playing doubles with Venus this year has taught me so much about her mindset on court,” Eala said. “I also learned about how she fought for equal prize money with her sister and all the challenges they faced to get where they are now. It’s really inspiring.”
Eala added, “There are many stories behind the scenes that most people don’t know. It keeps me humble and motivated to work even harder and stay among these amazing players.”
Williams has also praised Eala, calling her a “world star” after their Toronto run. “Playing under the lights with her was amazing. We both thrive in pressure moments,” Williams said. “Alex is incredible, not just in tennis but as a person—well-spoken and impressive. I enjoy being around her, and we lift each other up.”
Eala’s first match at the 2026 US Open will likely be on Sunday, where she’ll face American qualifier Mary Stoiana in Round 1 on Monday. If she keeps going, she could meet up to four Grand Slam champions later in the tournament as she chases US Open glory.