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Alexandra Eala shares insight from recent training sessions with Rafael Nadal

Originally posted on HITC | By Peter Lynch | Last updated Feb 2, 2026 2:51 PM ET

Alexandra Eala has not dwelled on her Australian Open disappointment, where the promising young player bowed out in the opening round.

Eala has a massive following and her popularity was on full display at Melbourne Park, where plenty of fans were eager to catch a glimpse of her matches.

However, the tournament ended quickly for the 20-year-old as she lost in the first round of both singles and doubles.

Eala then competed in the Philippine Women’s Open, reaching the quarterfinals before losing to Camila Osorio, who went on to win the tournament.

Alexandra Eala reflects on memorable Rafael Nadal training session

Photo by Gonzalo Arroyo Moreno/Getty Images

Eala, who developed her game at the Rafael Nadal Academy, is currently competing in both singles and doubles at the Abu Dhabi Open.

Speaking before her first match, the world No. 45 opened up about a training session with Nadal, telling The National: “It was crazy.”

“It was my first time ever hitting with him and I was so nervous and it was definitely physically demanding for me.

“I mean he was off court for like a year and I’ve been training strong and I feel like, man I was so far.

“But it was just such a great experience to really absorb all that knowledge. Just to say that you hit with Rafa, it’s insane, but I feel so lucky and so blessed.

“Rafa says a lot in his speeches that it’s important to surround yourself with good people and I really think that this is such a great piece of advice.

“And he’s told me other stuff about my game, but that’s what stood out the most.”

Alexandra Eala reflects on unexpected Miami Open breakthrough

Eala has already made notable progress early in her career, highlighted by a remarkable run at the 2025 Miami Open.

The young Filipina reached the semifinals of the WTA 1000 event, catching many off guard with her impressive performances against some of the sport’s biggest names.

She took down Iga Swiatek, Madison Keys, Paula Badosa and Jelena Ostapenko before falling to Jessica Pegula in the semifinals.

Reflecting on that period, she said: “Obviously the Miami run was quite sudden, but after that, I took it step by step and nothing came really in a big wave.”

“So I eased into certain changes that came with being in the top 100 and I think it’s a similar story for the start of this season, with the people and just the exposure I’m getting.”

“So I try to take it step by step. I try to remind myself that work is work and all of this wouldn’t be possible if I didn’t work hard.”

Even though Eala did not get off to the start she wanted at Melbourne Park, there is plenty of optimism about what lies ahead for her in 2026.

This article first appeared on HITC and was syndicated with permission.

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