Dennis Gasgonia

Article (news)

Dyan Castillejo

ABS-CBN News

Alex Eala was back on the clay courts of the Italian Open on Saturday noon at Court 7, training with Liudmila Samsonova ahead of her Round of 32 clash against Elena Rybakina.Eala and Samsonova hit for just under an hour in sunny conditions at the Foro Italico, with many fans crowding around the court to watch both players.Aryna Sabalenka was also practicing on the court beside them.The two practiced hard throughout the session, working on their groundstrokes, volleys, overheads, serves, returns, and even playing a few points.Fans were enthusiastic all session long, shouting the players’ names, while several Italians recognized Alex as “the Filipina Eala.”After practice, both players stayed to sign autographs for fans. Eala signed tennis balls for kids before walking off court with her coach, while the Russian also stopped for selfies.Samsonova shares a similar build to Rybakina, giving Eala a solid tune-up ahead of Sunday’s big match.

Alex Eala was back on the clay courts of the Italian Open on Saturday noon at Court 7, training with Liudmila Samsonova ahead of her Round of 32 clash against Elena Rybakina.

Alex Eala was back on the clay courts of the Italian Open on Saturday noon at Court 7, training with Liudmila Samsonova ahead of her Round of 32 clash against Elena Rybakina.

Alex Eala practices with Samsonova ahead of Rybakina clash

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Alex Eala practices with Samsonova ahead of Rybakina clash

Dyan Castillejo,

ABS-CBN News

Published May 10, 2026 12:36 AM PHT

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Updated May 10, 2026 06:58 PM PHT

Read More:

Alex Eala

Elena Rybakina

Liudmila Samsonova

Italian Open

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