Alex Eala feels more equipped in French Open return

Philippines’ Alexandra Eala reacts as she plays Kazakhstan’s Elena Rybakina, during their match at the Italian Open tennis tournament in Rome, Sunday, May 10, 2026. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini)

Alex Eala at French Open 2026: schedule, what to know

MANILA, Philippines — Alex Eala feels she’s more ready in her second main draw appearance at the French Open 2026.

Eala, who just turned 21, battles her doubles partner Iva Jovic of the United States in the first round on Tuesday (Manila time).

With her first full clay season, the Filipino tennis ace believes she has improved a lot compared to her last year’s main draw Grand Slam debut.

READ: Alex Eala faces Iva Jovic in French Open first round

“I feel definitely prepared more than last year. I think I have improved a lot on this surface,” Eala said in a press conference.

“Of course, I have such a long way to go but I think I’ve improved a lot in the past year as a player and it’s really helped me manage the challenges that come with the surface for me.”

Eala made her Grand Slam main draw last year in the French Open, falling short to Emiliana Arango, 0-6, 6-2, 3-6.

The Rafa Nadal Academy graduate has a 4-5 record in five clay tournaments so far. Eala’s best showing was in the Italian Open, reaching the round of 32 after beating Magdalena and Wang Xinyu.

READ: Alex Eala, Janice Tjen bring ‘sense of pride’ to French Open

She faced World No. 2 Elena Rybakina, but her gallant stand wasn’t enough, yielding a 4-6, 3-6 result.

As she faces the 17th seed Jovic, whom she teamed up with in the ASB Classic doubles semifinals and Indian Wells, Eala will play like she has nothing to lose.

“I think I’m super excited for this week. We do the preparations to arrive at the Grand Slams well. So I’m feeling good. I’m happy. And nothing on the line, nothing to lose,” she said.