Tennis fans around the world were left stunned this week after rising Filipina star Alexandra Eala posted a now-viral message congratulating Aryna Sabalenka on her Madrid Open triumph — but it wasn’t just the praise that got people talking. Eala, just 19 years old, made headlines with an eight-word tribute that not only declared Sabalenka her “idol,” but also included a surprising dig at American star Coco Gauff, catching fans and analysts off guard.

The Message That Shocked Tennis Twitter

Following Sabalenka’s thrilling victory in Madrid, Eala took to her Instagram story with a simple but loaded message:

“True power. Real grace. My idol always — not Gauff.”

Within minutes, screenshots of the post exploded across social media. Many fans praised Eala’s boldness and honesty, while others criticized her for seemingly undermining a fellow young star in Coco Gauff, who remains one of the most celebrated names in the sport.

“This might be the start of a new rivalry,” one fan commented on X (formerly Twitter). “You don’t just say something like that and expect it to go unnoticed.”

Why Sabalenka?

Eala has previously spoken about her admiration for the Belarusian powerhouse. Sabalenka, known for her aggressive baseline play and emotional fire, has become one of the top players in the world, winning multiple Grand Slam titles and now adding another Madrid Open trophy to her resume.

In interviews throughout 2024, Eala has frequently mentioned Sabalenka’s “fearless” game style and “never-back-down” attitude as inspiration for her own evolving career.

“She plays with such fire, such presence. That’s what I want to be,” Eala told a reporter earlier this year.

The Madrid Open victory was another example of Sabalenka’s dominance — and clearly left a deep impression on Eala.

The Unexpected Gauff Reference

What has people most puzzled is Eala’s decision to mention Coco Gauff directly — even if it was to say she was not her idol. Gauff, currently ranked in the top five globally, is just two years older than Eala and has often been referred to as part of the same “next-gen wave” of women’s tennis stars.

Some have speculated that Eala may feel overshadowed by the immense media attention Gauff receives, or that there may be tension behind the scenes from junior-level encounters.

Tennis journalist and analyst Matt Reaves commented:

“This could be a glimpse into a deeper narrative. Maybe Eala is making a statement — trying to carve out her own identity, separate from the usual comparisons with Gauff and others.”

Mixed Reactions from the Tennis World

While Sabalenka herself has not commented on Eala’s message, the post has sparked a mix of reactions.

Some fans are praising Eala for being authentic.

“I love her honesty. It’s refreshing to see a player who says what she thinks,” one user wrote.

Others were more critical, calling the statement “unnecessary shade” that could create drama in a sport that often values diplomacy.

“Calling Sabalenka your idol is great,” said former pro Monica Puig on a podcast. “But why bring Gauff into it at all? It distracts from what should’ve been a beautiful compliment.”

A Statement of Confidence or a PR Misstep?

Whether this was a calculated PR move, a spontaneous emotional reaction, or simply a misunderstood post, one thing is clear: Alexandra Eala has put herself on the radar in a new way. No longer just the promising teen from the Philippines, she’s emerging as a bold voice — willing to say what others might only think.

As the tennis season heats up, fans will be watching closely to see how this tension unfolds on the court, especially if Eala and Gauff are drawn to face each other in an upcoming tournament.

One thing is certain: the next time Alexandra Eala steps on court, the world will be watching — and listening.