Alexandra Eala’s run to the ASB Classic quarter-finals and her win at the Kooyong Classic have set a strong foundation ahead of her Australian Open debut.
This marks her first appearance in the Grand Slam main draw, and anticipation is already growing as she prepares to take the next step in her career.
While she had previously fallen short in qualifying over the past two years, her rise into the top 50 has now earned her direct entry into the tournament.
During training at Melbourne Park, Eala worked with world number three Coco Gauff and later posted a message to social media reflecting on that experience.
Alexandra Eala grateful for Coco Gauff’s role in her major step forward
Eala shared a video on Instagram, showing her practice session with world number three Gauff on Rod Laver Arena.
In the caption, the 20-year-old wrote: “First time on Rod Laver Arena! Thank you, Coco Gauff.”
The friendship between Gauff and Eala dates back to when they teamed up for doubles at the Italian Open.
Eala reached out to Gauff via an Instagram DM, asking if they could partner up, and much to her surprise, Gauff agreed.
The duo were given a wild card entry into the clay court event. They picked up two wins before eventually falling to Sara Errani and Jasmine Paolini, who went on to win the tournament.
What kind of Australian Open run can Alexandra Eala realistically put together?
Going unseeded, Eala’s first trip through the Australian Open main draw will not be a gentle start.
She begins against Alycia Parks, a match she will be expected to win. But beyond that, the path gets steeper quickly.
If she advances, her next two likely opponents are Karolina Muchova and Emma Navarro – both inside the top 20 and dangerous on hard courts. Pulling off back-to-back upsets would take something special.
Beyond them could be a fourth-round clash with Gauff. It would be another step up in class and a tough mental challenge as well.
Even if an early exit happens in Melbourne, there is something positive waiting for Eala back home. She is scheduled to play in the inaugural Philippine Women’s Open in Manila – an event that gives her another valuable opportunity to compete.
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