Filipino tennis community in Winnipeg grows, inspired by Alexandra Eala's success

The Garden City tennis courts in Winnipeg are buzzing with activity, with more people picking up a racquet than ever before. This surge in interest is largely attributed to the inspiring success of 21-year-old tennis star Alexandra Eala.

Earlier this month, Eala made history by becoming the first Filipina to win a Women's Tennis Association Championship and subsequently debuted in the National Bank Open in Toronto. Her achievements have ignited a sense of pride and a desire to participate in the sport within the local Filipino community.

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Everybody’s playing now because of her. The impact is so big. Everyone is just so proud to be Filipino.

"Everybody’s playing now because of her. The impact is so big. Everyone is just so proud to be Filipino," said Jowen Sangalang, president of the Winnipeg North Sports Group. Members of the group, which plays in the Garden City and Sargeant Park areas, echo this sentiment.

"In our community there’s a lot of ‘I want to be Eala. I want to be Alex,'" shared Edj Villamar, another Winnipeg North Sports Group member. The growing enthusiasm highlights Eala's significant influence beyond the tennis court, fostering a stronger sense of identity and shared accomplishment.

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In our community there’s a lot of ‘I want to be Eala. I want to be Alex.'