Philippines seek WTA exemption as Alexandra Eala skips China Open for Asian Games
Games and Open have overlapping schedules and Philippines tennis body wants world No 18 to compete at Aichi-Nagoya without penalties
The Philippines Tennis Association (Philta) has filed a request with the WTA on behalf of Alexandra Eala, requesting an exemption from the mandatory China Open so that the world No 18 can represent her country at the Asian Games.
Eala, who has become a fan favourite with wins over some of the biggest names on the circuit including Iga Swiatek and Coco Gauff, is the highest-ranked player in the women’s singles draw at the Asian Games, which begin on Saturday and conclude on October 4.
However, the Aichi-Nagoya Games schedule overlaps with the China Open, a mandatory WTA 1000 tournament, which starts in Beijing on September 30.
Skipping a mandatory WTA 1000 competition without an official exemption results in a ranking penalty and may attract fines.