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| Alex Eala likened her loss to Camila Osorio at home to a double-edged sword. Cesca Rampas |
MANILA--Alex Eala compared a tough defeat at home to a very sharp blade.
When asked about falling short in the quarterfinals of the Philippine Women's Open on Thursday night at the Rizal Memorial Tennis Center despite huge cheers from her fans every time she scored, Eala described its similarities to a double-edged sword.
"I think playing in front of a crowd like this that are passionate and supportive makes losses like a double-sided sword. On one end, it does cushion the blow because they're there for you and support you. On the other end, it hurts a little more, and it's a little harder to accept because you want to do the best for them," Eala said.
Both Eala and Camila Osorio pushed each other to the limit, exchanging powerful finishes, break points, and high IQ moments.
In the end, however, Osorio's solid return game made the difference, winning 36 return points compared to Eala's 27.
Osorio also sent Eala to the brink of break point 12 times, and although Eala was actually perfect in break points, going 4-for-4, Osorio's getting more break point chances was enough to put more pressure on Eala.
Despite the defeat, Eala did not show sad emotions and said that she was still satisfied with her final act at home for now.
"I gave it my all today, and there were no regrets, so I'm happy about that," Eala said.
She now turns her attention to the Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open, a WTA 500 tournament, starting on Sunday.
