Filipina tennis star Alexandra “Alex” Eala has been named one of the world’s most influential rising stars in TIME100 Next 2026 by TIME Magazine.
Eala was featured under the “Innovators” category, with her profile written by tennis legend and her mentor, Rafael Nadal.
Nadal highlighted Eala’s remarkable rise in international tennis, recalling the first time they played together following his retirement.
He also praised Eala’s achievements, including her breakthrough run at the 2025 Miami Open, where she defeated three Grand Slam champions.
This year, Eala captured her first WTA 500 title, becoming the first Filipina to break into the world’s top 20.
She is currently ranked No. 18 in the WTA rankings.
Nadal also lauded Eala’s attitude and humility, saying her ability to listen, learn, and continuously improve remains one of her greatest strengths.
Eala is currently competing at the 2026 Asian Games, where she has already secured at least a bronze medal after advancing to the women’s singles semifinals.
(Photo Courtesy: Screengrab from TIME Website)
