Filipina Tennis Prodigy Eala Receives Prestigious ITF Grant

MANILA: Alexandra Eala, a rising star in Philippine tennis, has been awarded a USD25,000 grant from the International Tennis Federation (ITF) Grand Slam Player Development Program for the upcoming 2024 season. This grant marks the third consecutive year Eala has been recognized for her potential and performance in the sport.

According to Philippines News Agency, Eala expressed her gratitude for the ITF Development Fund’s support, which has played a crucial role in her tennis career. The funding is intended to help cover the competition-related costs for players showing exceptional promise. Eala, who is currently ranked No. 184 in the world, is competing at the W50 Indore event in India, where she has advanced to the quarterfinal round. Her achievements include winning her first WTA doubles title last week, underscoring her growing stature in international tennis.

The ITF Grand Slam Player Development Program, in collaboration with the Grand Slams, aims to foster competitive opportunities for players from developing nations. The program has contributed more than USD60 million towards player development since its inception, with many recipients reaching the top ranks of the sport. Eala, along with other junior Grand Slam titleholders and promising athletes from around the world, benefits from this initiative designed to elevate the game’s global competitive landscape.