On Friday, I found myself at the South Street Seaport joining, alongside Racquet Magazine, the celebration of iconic tennis brand Babolat’s 150-year anniversary. Tennis stars and tennis lovers alike were clad in their best whites (I, on the other hand, wore black.), munching on STK bites, and mingling over Heinekens and Dobel margaritas, resisting the urge to stop by the tattoo station for some tennis-themed ink.
I was there to interview Alex Eala, the breakout tennis star from the Philippines who, at the time, unbeknownst to all of us but not at all surprisingly, was on the brink of a career high: becoming the first player from the Philippines to win a Grand Slam match in the Open era on Sunday in the opening round of the US Open. She has and is actively accomplishing things that most people couldn’t even almost do at twenty years old. Between press moments, photo ops, and pausing while she could before the US Open chaos ensued, Eala gave us a speed round Q&A. Her illustrious, monumental win is reaffirmation that everything we discussed, from her pre-game soundtrack to the advice that means most to her, is clearly working. Not that she ever, for a moment, doubted herself.
What does a match day look like for you? Do you have any game day rituals?
“It depends on what time of day my match is. In the morning, I’ll get in a good warmup and make sure I have time to eat before and do my own routine. I like to look good. I like to have my outfit and I like to fix my hair. I think when my hair is neat, I feel good.”
As an athlete, are there any beauty or wellness products that you consider essential?
“Sunblock. Does that count? I live and die by sunscreen. That’s essential, in all capitals. I like more lightweight ones. Right now I’m using Isdin FusionWater Magic.”
In your opinion, how do sports and beauty intersect?
“I really resonate with the saying, ‘look good, feel good’. So on days where I don’t really feel like training or I’m not feeling so motivated, when I put a good outfit on, I feel better.”
Racquet, Courtesy of Alex Brown
How would you describe your style, both on and off the court?
“Everything Nike. I love Nike. They have really good athleisure. I love to be comfortable when I wear outfits going out, on the move, and moving around. Stylish but comfortable.”
Do you think there’s a relationship between sports and fashion?
“Of course. Sports is one of the biggest stages, so I feel like fashion is a way you can express yourself out there. Like I said, it can be a reflection of how you feel.”
How does it feel to join Racquet in honoring Babolat’s 150-year legacy?
“I am so proud to be a part of the Babolat family. Babolat has such a rich history. I’ve been using the same racquet ever since I was young. I don’t even know how old I was. I never changed it.”
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
"Not to doubt myself. And to surround myself with good people."
