Tennis: Joan Bosch proud of Alex Eala’s ‘very good year’ despite Hong Kong defeat

MANILA — Filipino tennis star Alex Eala took a big step forward in 2026, with her coach noting the improvements in her skill set and physicality.

Coach Joan Bosch of the Rafa Nadal Academy praised Eala’s campaign this year, even as the 21-year-old just fell short of a second title in the WTA Tour.

Eala closed her season with a loss to Claire Liu of the United States in the final of the Hong Kong Tennis Open on Sunday.

“It’s true that today we could not do it. The other girl played very well. We had many chances in the second set, but I think she played very well,” said Bosch.

“Serves, forehands, everything. So, we tried and we could not win today, but as I said, we did a very good year,” he added.

Despite the defeat, Eala still rose to No. 15 in the WTA Rankings — a new career high.

“We wanted to be better than last year, I always tell you. But from 50 to 15 is a big step by rank and by level. So, we are super happy,” Bosch said.

The coach was especially pleased with the improvements in Eala’s game. 

“She improved physically … Also, she improved the serve a lot. I know people always says it’s the one that she can improve the most, but she improved a lot,” said Bosch.

The Hong Kong Tennis Open had been grueling for Eala, who battled through a three-set epic over Greek veteran Maria Sakkari in the semifinal on Saturday. During Sunday’s final, she took a medical timeout in the first set to have her right knee wrapped.

Eala was unable to win a game after the timeout, with Liu finding her form and cruising in the second set. 

“The matches were super long. You know, also one day, during the week, she already had some feelings, but nothing big,” said Bosch. “The other girl played amazing tennis. I mean, congrats to her.”

With the season over, Bosch said the first order of business is rest. After the break, Eala will return to training with coach Lluc Bauza, with fitness the first focus.

“She deserves to be happy and enjoy these weeks… go on vacations, and eat as a normal person, have some ice cream, go to the cinema, now is the moment to do it,” the coach said.

Eala will still play an exhibition match at the Philippine Arena on December 8 against Indonesia’s Janice Tjen. – report from Dyan Castillejo, ABS-CBN News