Coaches Weigh In on Alex Eala’s Madrid Open Return

BARCELONA, SPAIN— Coaches are backing Alex Eala ahead of her return to the 2026 Mutua Madrid Open, pointing to her aggressive style and growing confidence on the WTA stage.

Barcelona-based coach Marcos Roy of RV Tennis Academy believes Madrid’s high-altitude conditions could play to Eala’s strengths, favoring players who take control of points early.

“Madrid conditions can benefit aggressive players, and Alex likes to play that way,” Roy said.

He also highlighted the depth of young talent in women’s tennis, adding that Eala, 20, has already shown she belongs at this level, particularly after her strong showing in Miami.

“Results like that show she belongs in tournaments of this level,” he said. “I wouldn’t be surprised if she delivers another strong performance here.”

Roy, who is in Madrid accompanying one of his players, also shared a lighthearted remark, wishing Eala well — as long as she doesn’t face his own trainee in the draw.

Meanwhile, Marbella-based Filipino coach Orlando Barcia, a GPTCA and RPT-certified trainer, emphasized the significance of Eala’s presence on the professional stage.

“For every tennis player, it’s a dream to compete at this level — and Alex is already there. She’s now in the same space as the best in the world,” Barcia said.

He acknowledged that ups and downs are part of the game, noting that performance varies from match to match.

“Sometimes you win, sometimes you lose. There are great matches and there are moments with errors — that’s part of the sport. What matters is that, with the help of her coaches, she continues to improve each time she steps on court,” he added.

With her first-round opponent yet to be determined, Barcia believes Eala’s team is already preparing her for the next challenge, especially following her early exit in Stuttgart.

“That kind of result becomes motivation. She’ll be hungry for a win,” he said.

“We’ll be following her closely, and whatever happens, we are proud of her.”

Roy’s Barcelona-based academy previously trained Filipino junior Brice Vincent Baisa for three months last year, helping prepare him for his transition into men’s professional competition.

The clay-court ATP Masters 1000 tournament will be held from April 20 to May 3 at the Caja Magica.