Felix Auger-Aliassime of Canada serves during a match against Juan Manuel Cerúndolo of Argentina on day eight of the Cincinnati Open at Lindner Family Tennis Center on August 18, 2026 in Mason, Ohio. Emilee Chinn, Getty Images/AFP
MANILA — Alex Eala will have Felix Auger-Aliassime as her partner in the mixed doubles event of the 2026 US Open, and the Canadian star is thrilled to team up with the Filipina tennis sensation for the first time.
“It’s a great opportunity,” said Auger-Aliassime in an interview with Tennis Channel. “The people in our teams talked to make that happen.”
Eala and Auger-Aliassime are among the wildcards of the main draw, joining the likes of Sarra Errani and Andrea Vavassori, Leylah Fernandez and Frances Tiafoe, Taylor Townsend and Alexander Zverev, and Elina Svitolina and Gael Monfils, with the other spots yet to be announced.
Novak Djokovic and Aryna Sabalenka, as well as Iga Swiatek and Casper Ruud, meanwhile, have direct entries, among other pairings.
But for Auger-Aliassime, teaming up with Eala is an experience he is raring to have.
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“It is a great opportunity because I did not play last year. This time around, I get to feel what it’s like to have the ‘Eala-effect’ and fanbase behind me,” said the 26-year-old.
“She has the fanbase, she’s carrying the crowd,” added Auger-Aliassime.
In addition, Auger-Aliassime said competing in the mixed doubles event is also a chance for both of them to stay locked in on their respective singles campaigns.
“It keeps you in the competitive mindset,” he said. “It’s a great thing, and I think I’m gonna live it out there.”
The mixed doubles qualifiers will be held on August 24, while the main draw opens on August 25.
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