June 6, 2025 — London, England
Filipina tennis star Alexa Eala has been forced to withdraw from what would have been her much-anticipated Wimbledon main draw debut after suffering a shoulder injury during final training sessions, her team confirmed early Thursday morning.
The 19-year-old, who had earned direct entry into the tournament following a breakthrough year on the WTA Tour, was set to become the first Filipino woman in history to compete in the singles main draw at Wimbledon. Her withdrawal marks a devastating setback not only for Eala but also for fans in the Philippines and across Asia who had been eagerly awaiting her grass-court debut on tennis’s most prestigious stage.
“Alexa has been dealing with some shoulder soreness for the past couple of weeks,” her agent said in a statement. “After consultation with medical specialists, it was determined that continuing to play could risk further damage. While this decision was not easy, it is the safest choice for Alexa’s long-term career.”
The injury reportedly flared up during practice earlier in the week as Eala prepared for her opening match. Though she initially hoped to manage the issue through rest and physiotherapy, an MRI on Wednesday confirmed inflammation in her right rotator cuff, leading to her withdrawal just three days before the tournament’s start.
Eala herself expressed heartbreak over missing the event:
“It’s incredibly difficult to step away from Wimbledon—this is a tournament I’ve dreamed of playing my whole life. But right now, my focus has to be on healing and coming back stronger. I’m grateful for all the love and support from the Philippines and around the world.”
The decision to pull out ends what had been shaping up as a historic moment for Philippine tennis. Eala, who captured her first WTA 250 title earlier this year in Strasbourg, had been riding a wave of momentum heading into the grass-court season. Her strong baseline game and calm court presence had earned praise from former champions and tennis commentators worldwide.
Wimbledon officials acknowledged Eala’s withdrawal with disappointment but extended their well wishes: “Alexa Eala represents the future of global tennis, and we were looking forward to seeing her compete at the All England Club. We wish her a swift and full recovery.”
In her absence, her slot in the main draw is expected to go to a lucky loser from the qualifying rounds.
Back home in the Philippines, the news was met with a mix of sadness and support. Fans took to social media using hashtags like #GetWellSoonAlexa and #EalaStrong to send their best wishes. Philippine Sports Commission chairperson Richard Bachmann released a statement praising Eala’s maturity:
“Alexa has carried the flag with pride and grace, and while this moment is unfortunate, we know it’s just the beginning of many more milestones in her career.”
Eala will now focus on rehabilitation and is expected to return for the North American hardcourt season, including potential appearances in the Canadian Open and US Open.
Though her Wimbledon dream is on hold, few doubt that Alexa Eala’s time on Centre Court is still to come—delayed, perhaps, but not denied.
