MANILA, Philippines – Alex Eala has reached a new career-high ranking of No. 18 in the Women's Tennis Association (WTA) rankings, making her the highest-ranked female tennis player from Southeast Asia. The 20-year-old Filipina moved up two spots from No. 20, according to the latest rankings released on August 24, 2026.
Eala's rise comes just before the US Open, where she is set to compete. Her recent performances, including strong showings at WTA events, have propelled her up the rankings. She has become a trailblazer for Philippine tennis, inspiring a new generation of players in the region.
Her achievement was celebrated by fans and officials in the Philippines, who see her as a symbol of the country's growing presence in international tennis. Eala has previously won the 2022 US Open girls' singles title and has continued to progress on the professional tour.
As she prepares for the US Open, Eala aims to build on her momentum and make a deep run in the tournament. Her ranking places her among the top 20 players in the world, a remarkable feat for a player from a country with limited tennis infrastructure.
