NEW YORK — Filipina tennis star Alex Eala was all smiles as she got up close and personal with her fans in New York City.
Before Eala stepped onto the Arthur Ashe Stadium for her Stars of the Open exhibition match against Iva Jovic, she was full of energy with her parents, Mike and Rizza, and brother, Miko, showing their full support at the event.
READ: Alex Eala all smiles at 'Stars of the Open'
Eala held a fan meet-and-greet at the Nike Store on Fifth Avenue in New York City, drawing a crowd of kababayans who came armed with limited-edition Alex Eala Nike shirts ready for her signature. She also took photos with lucky Filipinos who were thrilled to meet the Pinay tennis superstar.
"I'm from Makati. We're here for Alex," said one fan. "Thank you for representing Philippine culture so well. Good luck at the US Open. We are so proud of you. You got this!"
"We're from Manila and Santa Rosa, Laguna," said another fan in the same group.
Some stumbled upon the event by happy accident.
"It's actually by chance that we're here. We didn't know that she was here. We're here for the US Open," a fan said.
"I work for Universal Music. I'm here for a trip with my artist," she added. "I'm a big fan of Alex. I always watch the morning shows. I'm so happy that she's here and I'm able to see her in person."
One Filipino fan based in Queens tried to sum up what so many in line were feeling: "Yes, so excited to see Alex again. We see her every year when she comes here... Whether she wins or loses, we support her. What I noticed about Alex is that she's improving every month, every year."
After the signing and photo sessions, fans stayed on at the flagship store on Fifth Avenue for free coffee drinks named after Eala. On the menu were the "Eala Ace"—a coffee with ube—and the "Love Alex," a matcha-ube creation.
Eala has been drawing droves of fans at every turn during the US Open. Her practice sessions are packed, with extra security needed to manage orderly autograph signings as she makes her way back to the locker rooms.