Eala confirms Philippine Open entry

MANILA, Philippines -- It's official.

Filipina tennis ace Alex Eala will be participating in the Philippine Women’s Open next week, she confirmed on Wednesday.

Eala touched down in the Philippines early Wednesday evening after her Australian Open debut.

In a statement posted on the Philippine Women’s Open Facebook page, the 20-year-old tennis star said she will be seeing action in the historic tournament.

"Yes, I will be playing next week. I'm looking forward to it and I hope people can show up and support the Pinays," Eala said.

"It's a huge milestone in Philippine tennis, and I think it's a big deal for all of us Filipina tennis players," she added.

The tourney is the first WTA-125 event that will be held in the country. It will run from January 26-31.

She will be playing in the singles’ and doubles’ events.

Eala, before the Australian Open, said that it is a “dream” to have a home tournament.

“I think it’s a huge step for tennis in the Philippines and women’s tennis, especially. I know some friends who are going to play there, so I’m happy that it’s going to bring a lot of inspiration and a lot of motivation for the girls back home,” she said.

“It’s just a big step in the right direction.”

Eala bowed out in the first round of the Australian Open's singles' and doubles' events.