“Alex Eala needs protection – it’s like Michael Jordan in the Philippines.”

Kim Clijsters, a legend in the world of tennis and four-time Grand Slam champion, has issued a compelling warning regarding the rising star Alex Eala, comparing her meteoric ascent to that of Michael Jordan in the Philippines. Clijsters emphasizes the urgent need to “protect” Eala, who has rapidly become a national icon due to her groundbreaking achievements over the past year.

Eala, now just 20 years old, has shattered records and expectations in Philippine tennis, making history by securing a spot in the top 100 WTA rankings, defeating a top-five player, reaching a WTA Tour final, clinching a WTA Challenger title, and winning a match in the Grand Slam main draw—all within a stunningly short time frame. Currently, she boasts a career-high ranking of No. 31 in the world, following impressive quarter-final finishes in Dubai and Abu Dhabi during the WTA’s Middle East swing this month.

The support for Eala has reached unprecedented levels back home in 2026, with her matches at major events like the Australian Open and the Manila tournament drawing massive crowds, underscoring her role as a beacon of hope and pride for Filipino sports fans. However, this fame comes with its own set of challenges. Clijsters addressed the backlash Eala faced after her unexpected early exit at the Australian Open, stating that the young athlete “got a lot of hate” despite the considerable support she enjoys.

“Having that support is crucial,” Clijsters remarked on her Love All podcast. “We saw it this year after the Australian Open where Rafa [Nadal] spoke out about being a little bit of a protector for her as well. When she lost to Alycia Parks in a close three-set match, she received a significant amount of criticism from fans, which can be overwhelming.”

Eala has been honing her skills at Rafael Nadal’s academy in Spain since she was 13, immersed in a culture that prizes hard work and respect. Clijsters notes that this environment has undoubtedly contributed to her impressive performance on the court. “She’s surrounded by people with a mindset that demands a lot, but also encourages focus and dedication,” the Belgian tennis great explained.

Yet, Clijsters warns of the potential pitfalls that accompany Eala’s stardom. “It’s vital for her to be somewhat shielded from the chaos that comes with such rapid fame. She needs to maintain her focus on what truly matters,” Clijsters advised. “Living this life as a Michael Jordan-like figure in the Philippines isn’t easy. The changes happen so quickly, and it’s not just a matter of what you see online or in the news.”

The question remains: how will Eala navigate the pressures of fame while continuing to build on her promising career? As she stands on the brink of greatness, the tennis world watches closely, eager to see if she can handle the spotlight and emerge even stronger.