Two decades ago one of the most amazing phenomenons hit the world of boxing in the form of Manny Pacquiao. The little lefthander used his spectacular speed, power and boxing skills to win an unprecedented eight world titles in eight weight divisions. Pacquiao became the biggest and most sensational star in the sport just when it needed him most. Pacquiao attracted millions of Filipino fans from all over the world to attend his fights and buy the pay-per-view events generating huge profits for himself and the promoters and TV networks.
Now in tennis a similar one in a million trend is happening. A young Filipina women Alexandra Eala is doing to tennis what Pacquiao did for boxing. Tennis Channel analyst Coco Vandeweghe decided to check out Eala after her working day ended. She went to watch Eala play a three setter late night and had this to say: “My impression of Filipino fans – they are amazing. I experienced it in person. I stayed after work to go out and watch her play. It was an amazing experience to feel the crowd. She packs every court she plays on – even that late night match. It’s one of my favorite aspects of the sport.”
Vandeweghe told this to Filipino TV network reporter Dyan Castillejo, a former WTA ranked player who is now a TV reporter. Castillejo also covered dozens of Manny Pacquiao world title fights and she did this Biofile interview with me at a Pacquiao fight press conference
Coco Vandeweghe also noted that Tennis Channel is now offering a special deal to capitalize on the Filipino demographic as they are offering a deal for $77 a year to watch all Eala matches on Tennis Channel.
(Artwork by Sen Lacson)
Alexandra Eala · BNP Paribas Open · Manny Pacquiao
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