In the high-stakes world of professional tennis, where every match is a mental and physical grind, athletes often talk about the importance of recovery and mental clarity. For 19-year-old Filipino tennis star Alex Eala, that secret weapon doesn’t just lie in hitting a perfect forehand or chasing down tough volleys. It lies in what she does off the court — her passions, her downtime, and her surprisingly grounded hobbies that keep her mentally sharp on the WTA Tour.
In this blog, we explore how Alex Eala’s off-court hobbies contribute to her success, allowing her to stay focused, inspired, and resilient through the emotional highs and lows of pro tennis.
1. The Bookworm Side: Reading as a Mental Reset
When she’s not training or traveling to her next tournament, Alex Eala often turns to books. Yes, books. In an age of endless scrolling and TikTok distractions, Eala’s choice to unplug and dive into reading sets her apart.
She’s shared in interviews that fiction and memoirs are among her favorites, with a growing interest in sports psychology literature. Reading allows her to unwind after intense training sessions while gaining new perspectives.

Why it matters: Tennis is a cerebral game. Staying calm under pressure, analyzing opponents, and mentally resetting between matches are key. Eala’s reading habit helps keep her mind engaged, sharp, and balanced.
“Reading keeps me centered. It helps me see outside the tennis bubble,” she once told a Manila-based lifestyle magazine.
2. Music and Mood: Creating Playlists for Performance
Whether it’s blasting Taylor Swift before a match or winding down with soft indie music after a long flight, music plays a big role in Eala’s mental wellness.
She often curates playlists for different moods: high-energy songs for training days and slower ballads for decompressing. Some fans have even caught glimpses of her match-day tunes on her Instagram stories.
Why it matters: Music isn’t just entertainment. It regulates mood, reduces anxiety, and helps athletes get into a flow state. For Alex, music is more than background noise — it’s a form of emotional regulation.
3. Sketching and Journaling: A Creative Outlet
Eala has dabbled in sketching and journaling — two hobbies that let her disconnect from the high-pressure world of pro sports. While she doesn’t post much of it publicly, she has mentioned keeping a private journal where she reflects on her matches, goals, and feelings.
She also likes doodling when she has free time in hotel rooms between tournaments. It’s not about being a professional artist; it’s about the therapeutic value of creating without judgment.
Why it matters: Journaling is a proven method to reduce stress and clarify thoughts. It also helps athletes track progress and stay grounded.
4. Exploring Cities: Finding Joy in the Journey
Eala is one of the most traveled Filipino athletes of her generation. From Paris to Dubai to Miami, she’s seen the world. But she doesn’t just shuttle between the court and hotel room.
On days off, Alex often explores local cafes, museums, and hidden spots in the cities she competes in. Her Instagram sometimes features these low-key adventures.
Why it matters: It’s easy for young athletes to feel isolated in constant travel. But Eala’s willingness to explore brings excitement to the grind, keeps her culturally curious, and refreshes her mental state.
5. Family Time (Even From Afar)
Though she lives much of her life on the road, Alex Eala is known for staying close to her family. Whether it’s texting her mom and dad after every match or FaceTiming with her brother Miko, who plays college tennis in the U.S., Eala stays grounded through family bonds.
Why it matters: Emotional support from loved ones builds confidence, especially when you’re far from home. Her close-knit family keeps her rooted, which helps her mentally thrive under pressure.
6. Cooking Simple Meals
Believe it or not, Eala enjoys cooking on occasion — especially when staying in Airbnbs or tournament accommodations with kitchens. While she’s no MasterChef, she likes making Filipino comfort food or healthy breakfasts before practice.
Why it matters: Cooking is a mindful activity. It provides structure, normalcy, and joy amid a chaotic travel schedule. For a young athlete, it’s also a form of self-care.
7. Watching Other Sports
Alex isn’t just obsessed with tennis. She enjoys watching basketball, swimming, and gymnastics — sports that also test discipline and grace under pressure.
She’s even cited athletes like Simone Biles and Filipino boxer Manny Pacquiao as inspirations.

Why it matters: Watching other sports can provide tactical insights, emotional motivation, and a broader appreciation for athletic excellence. It also reminds Eala that she’s part of a global sports community.
Social Media with Boundaries
Unlike many Gen Z athletes who live on social media, Eala keeps a carefully curated digital presence. She shares milestones and moments, but rarely overshares. Her team ensures she avoids online toxicity and pressure.
Why it matters: Mental health and social media are tightly linked. By keeping boundaries, Eala protects her confidence and focus while still connecting with fans.
The Bigger Picture: Building a Sustainable Career
Many tennis players burn out early due to pressure and lack of balance. But Eala is charting a different path. Her off-court hobbies reflect a young athlete committed not just to performance, but to personal growth.
From reading to journaling to enjoying a good Spotify playlist, Alex Eala’s off-court hobbies are her true secret weapon. They help her reset, reflect, and recharge — qualities that translate directly to her calm, composed, and increasingly fierce style of play.
She’s not just building a tennis career. She’s building a life.
And in doing so, she’s giving young athletes everywhere permission to chase their goals without losing themselves.
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