MusaFilipino rising star Alexandra “Alex” Eala has officially withdrawn from the 2025 Cincinnati Open, citing a left shoulder injury sustained during her previous match in Montreal. The decision to pull out of the event underscores her commitment to safeguarding her health ahead of the US Open, which opens in late August.
Eala, who recently broke into the WTA Top 70, began her hard-court swing in strong form. However, during her match at the Canadian Open, she showed signs of discomfort in her left shoulder, particularly when serving and playing high-pressure returns. Despite managing to finish the match, her team noted she was visibly limping and favored that shoulder throughout.
Following medical evaluation, Eala’s coaching and medical team confirmed that the issue could become serious if not properly addressed. Given that the Cincinnati Open typically serves as one of the final tune-up events before the US Open—a Grand Slam she has long awaited to debut in—Eala and her team decided to prioritize recovery over participation.
This season marks a watershed for Eala, becoming the first Filipino to reach four WTA main-draw quarterfinals in a single season. Her breakthrough at the 2025 Miami Open, where she stunned higher-ranked opponents en route to a semifinal run, was particularly historic and boosted her global profile. The shoulder injury, while disappointing, is considered manageable as long as she responds well to rehabilitation.
The decision to skip Cincinnati reflects a strategic approach to injury management among young elite athletes. Competing through pain on the WTA Tour can worsen physical issues and derail progress, especially in the final stretch of the year with the Grand Slams and WTA Finals looming. Eala’s medical team has arranged for a focused rest and recovery period, including physiotherapy, targeted strength work, and gradual court chipping practice.
Fans and supporters across the Philippines have voiced their concern, but many have also expressed understanding and encouragement on social media. The national tennis community recognizes that recovery is vital for long-term success, particularly for a player still building her foundational years on tour.
With the Cincinnati Open now off her calendar, attention turns to Eala’s potential participation in the US Open main draw, a milestone she is poised to reach as the first Filipino woman to compete in singles at that level. Her recovery schedule is being carefully synchronized with the tournament’s timeline to ensure she is match-fit and physically prepared.
In previous years, Eala demonstrated resilience in the face of setbacks. In 2024, she recovered from a wrist injury to bounce back at lower-tier events and rebuild momentum. These experiences have helped her and her team craft disciplined injury management strategies that balance ambition with long-term health.
Despite the set-back, optimism remains high. Eala’s determination, combined with high-quality coaching and medical support, points to a promising recovery ahead. If she returns healthy and competitive, the Philippines may soon see one of its own competing on Grand Slam center courts.
For now, fans will eagerly await updates on her rehabilitation progress and hope to see Eala back on court stronger than ever—ready to inspire a new generation of tennis talent in her home country.
Musa
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John Owolabi
