Eala risks $10,000 fine over Asian Games participation

Filipino tennis star faces WTA hurdle, possible fine to play for flag

Alex Eala’s participation at the 2026 Asian Games is facing fresh uncertainty after Indonesia’s Janice Tjen reportedly had her appeal for an exemption rejected by the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA).

Eala is one of the biggest names expected to compete at the Games in Japan. The Filipino tennis star is currently ranked 18 in the world after reaching the third round of the 2026 US Open, where she lost to 14th-ranked Iva Jovic.

Eala has committed to representing the Philippines at the Asian Games and plans to skip the WTA-mandatory China Open in Shanghai. The Philippine Tennis Association (PHILTA) has already filed an exemption request with the WTA, according to GMA Network.

However, Tjen’s situation has raised concerns over Eala’s chances of receiving similar rejection. The Indonesian, ranked No. 35 in the world, withdrew from the Asian Games after the WTA rejected her exemption appeal, according to the Philippine Daily Inquirer.

Playing at the Asian Games without the approval of WTA would cost Eala a fine of up to $10,000 (Dh 36,725). She will also lose ranking points if she misses the China Open to compete in Japan, which can hurt her position in the standings.

The possibility has already triggered calls for government support. Philippine senator Erwin Tulfo urged the Philippine Sports Commission and Philippine Olympic Committee to find a legal way to assist Eala if she is fined.

“If she is to be fined for choosing to represent our country, isn’t it only fitting for the government to extend assistance or support to her?” Tulfo said to ABS-CBN News.

Senator Bong Go has also backed PHILTA’s request and called on the WTA to grant Eala an exemption. While the Philippine star has all plans to represent her country at the Asian Games, the question is whether she will play by paying the fine or without it.