Alex Eala’s popularity has dominated the Canadian Open this year in Toronto, with fans packing out her matches in Toronto.
Each of Eala’s matches have been sold-out, with the Filipino community in Toronto flocking to the tournament to support their home country hero.
The crowds have been raucous, with many fans criticising the verocity of the fans and questioning whether they have a place in the sport at all.
Belinda Bencic, who knocked Eala out of the fourth round of the Masters tournament, has now offered up her verdict on the loud supporters.
The Swiss star seemed perfectly happy with Eala’s fans on Centre Court after confirming a very straightforward victory against the 21-year-old.
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“I know most of you guys were cheering for Alex, but I still have to say it was very nice for me to play in front of you all,” said the Swiss star after confirming her place in the quarter finals. “Thank you so much for the great crowd tonight.”
This has been a running theme for Eala’s opponents in Toronto, so clearly the players on the court do not have a problem with the loud atmosphere created.
Caty McNally was also full of praise for Eala’s fans following her three set defeat to the Filipina star in the third round of the competition.
“Toronto, last night was unforgettable. the atmosphere out there was absolutely electrifying. I wish the result was different, but I left my whole heart out on the court,” wrote the American on Instagram.
“The journey continues and my time is coming. Beyond thankful for all the love and kind messages received from people all around the world but especially the Filipinos.”
McNally personally benefitted from Eala’s fanbase too, as her match with the star helped her increase her fanbase. The star added around 20,000 new followers after playing Eala in the third round of the competition, with many of Eala’s fans flooding her comments section.
With a burst of positivity around Eala and the sport in general, it’s a wonder why any tennis fans and pundits could find a problem with the boom around tennis at the Canadian Open.
The tournament continues with the quarter finals stage, with the likes of Elina Svitolina, Naomi Osaka, Elena Rybakina, and Ekaterina Alexandrova left in the competition.
As for Eala, she will now head to the Cincinnati Open, where she is defending no ranking points. She will begin the tournament as the world No 20, and she has a real chance to continue to climb the rankings.
