Coco Gauff, ranked number four in the world, expressed her inability to truly empathize with Alexandra Eala, the rising Filipino star who recently became the first Filipino to win a WTA singles title. Gauff acknowledged that Eala faces significantly more pressure than she does, particularly as she navigates her historic achievements.

Eala, now ranked 18th globally, recently experienced an emotional moment after her loss to Iva Jovic in the third round of the US Open. She reflected on the overwhelming support from her home country, the Philippines, which has rallied behind her groundbreaking accomplishments.

Gauff, a two-time Grand Slam champion, noted:

No, I can't at all, because she's the first Filipino player to break a lot of the barriers that she's done, especially on the female side.

• She compared Eala's impact to that of Manny Pacquiao, highlighting the significance of her achievements for Filipino athletes.

Despite her own pressures, Gauff recognized the unique challenges Eala faces, saying:

From the outside looking in, she has more pressure. I have a lot of respect for her and what she's doing, but I can't really empathise.

Eala made history last year by becoming the first Filipino player to win a match during the US Open era and has since reached the fourth round at Wimbledon and the third round at Flushing Meadows this year. Following her Wimbledon success, she was honored at a reception by Filipino President Ferdinand Marcos at Malacanang Palace in Manila.

With increased visibility, Eala's fans and flags have become a common sight at her matches, marking a significant milestone for Filipino representation in tennis.