Filipina tennis sensation Alexandra Eala recently shared a candid and amusing story that perfectly captures her admiration for Spanish tennis legend Rafael Nadal.
In a light-hearted interview, the 19-year-old rising star admitted that she once ran after Nadal at the Madrid airport—an impulsive moment that revealed just how much she looks up to the 22-time Grand Slam champion.
The incident took place during one of her trips in Spain, where Eala trains at the Rafa Nadal Academy in Mallorca. According to her, she spotted Nadal at a distance while at the airport and couldn’t resist the chance to at least say hello. “I saw him and I just kind of panicked,” Eala recalled with a laugh. “I told myself, ‘This might be my only chance,’ so I literally ran to catch up with him.”
Eala said she managed to greet Nadal, who, true to his reputation, was warm and humble. “He smiled, said hello back, and asked how I was doing,” she said. “It was just a short interaction, but it meant the world to me.”
For Eala, Nadal has always been more than just a tennis icon—he’s a mentor and inspiration. Since enrolling at his academy at age 12, she’s had multiple opportunities to see him train and observe his work ethic up close. “You learn so much just by watching him,” she said. “His discipline, his humility, his respect for the sport—it’s all so inspiring.”
Her story resonated with fans not just because of its humor, but because it showcased Eala’s genuine admiration and humility despite her own growing fame. With several junior titles under her belt, including a historic US Open Girls’ Singles title in 2022, Eala is seen as one of Asia’s most promising young tennis players.
Still, she remains grounded. “Moments like that remind me why I started playing tennis in the first place,” she said. “It’s about passion, respect, and chasing your dreams—literally, sometimes.”
As Eala continues to rise in the professional ranks, she carries not just the lessons she’s learned from Nadal, but also the unforgettable memory of sprinting after her idol in an airport—a moment that proves even future stars can have fan-girl moments.
