Eala on a different planet with Venus

MANILA, Philippines — What better way to head into Wimbledon than with an extra fuel of inspiration from the sport’s living legend?

Alex Eala yesterday drew huge praises from former world No. 1, seven-time Grand Slam singles champion and three-time Olympic gold medalist Venus Williams of the United States after their historic partnership in the WTA500 Bad Homburg in Germany.

“The best ride, the best tournament, the best partner,” said the American great of Eala, a rising star at 21.

“I am so grateful for this experience with Venus,” answered Eala of Williams, 46, who also reigned supreme at Wimbledon doubles for six times as part of her 16 doubles Slams.

“Never in my wildest dreams would I have thought that I’d have the privilege of competing alongside you on court, Venus. Immensely grateful to learn from you.”

Eala and Williams took care of business in the opening round against qualifiers Catherine Harrison of the United States and Alexandra Osborne of Australia, 6-3, 6-4, but settled for a quarterfinal finish after a 6-3, 6-2 defeat to the second-seeded pair of Olivia Nicholls of Great Britain and Tereza Mihalikova of Slovakia.

And now with an extra motivation from Williams, No. 29 seed Eala brims with confidence against Mexico’s Renata Zarazua (WTA No. 76) in Round 1 of the Wimbledon starting on Monday. 

The WTA No. 30 Eala is the first Filipina player to be seeded in any Grand Slam main draw.