Rafael Nadal Praises Academy Stars Eala and Wong for Historic Miami Open Wins
Rafael Nadal celebrated the Miami Open success of academy stars Alexandra Eala and Coleman Wong. Eala made history for the Philippines by defeating Jelena Ostapenko, while Wong became the first Hong Kong player to beat a Top 20 opponent. Both credit Nadal’s academy for their progress as they prepare for their next matches.
Rafael Nadal Praises Academy Stars Eala and Wong for Historic Miami Open Wins
Though retired from the ATP Tour, Rafael Nadal remains deeply connected to the sport, closely following the success of two rising stars from his academy—Alexandra Eala and Coleman Wong—who have made national history at the Miami Open.
Eala’s Groundbreaking Victory for the Philippines
Filipina talent Alexandra Eala stunned No. 25 seed Jelena Ostapenko, becoming the first woman from the Philippines to defeat a Top 30 player since WTA rankings began in 1975. The 19-year-old, who has trained at Nadal’s academy in Mallorca since she was 13, was visibly emotional after her victory.
Nadal acknowledged the significance of her achievement, posting on X, “Congratulations Alex! A great win for you and for the Philippines.”
Wong’s Historic Run for Hong Kong
Hong Kong’s Coleman Wong also made headlines by upsetting No. 13 seed Ben Shelton in a dramatic three-set battle, becoming the first man from Hong Kong to defeat a Top 20 player since ATP rankings started in 1973. His opening-round victory over Daniel Altmaier marked another milestone—the first ATP Masters 1000 win for a player from Hong Kong.
Proud of his protégé, Nadal wrote, “We are very proud of you, Coleman! A historic win for Hong Kong.”
Academy Influence and Next Challenges
Both players have credited Nadal’s academy for shaping their careers. Wong, who moved to Spain at 17 after pandemic-related setbacks, attributes his progress to the training environment. Eala, who has long admired Nadal, once described him as “grounded and kind despite achieving everything I could dream of.”
Looking ahead, Eala faces Australian Open champion Madison Keys, while Wong takes on lucky loser Adam Walton. And with Nadal’s keen interest, they can count on his continued support.