Filipino tennis sensation Alexandra Eala is set to make her Wimbledon debut this year, but it’s not just her on-court skills that are making headlines—it’s her new coach and the unconventional training methods that have left fans and experts alike intrigued.

Eala, who has been training at the Rafa Nadal Academy in Mallorca, Spain, for several years, recently made a striking comment about her new coach. When asked about his influence, she straightforwardly compared him to tennis legend Rafael Nadal using just five words:

“He only taught me to sleep two hours a day to train.”

This bold statement has sparked widespread speculation about the identity of her new coach. While the comment may be metaphorical, highlighting the intense dedication required in professional tennis, it underscores the rigorous training regimen that Eala is undergoing.

Eala’s journey from the junior circuit to the professional stage has been nothing short of remarkable. Having trained under the guidance of Nadal himself at the academy, she has honed her skills and mental toughness, attributes that have propelled her into the spotlight.

In 2025, Eala achieved a career-high WTA singles ranking of No. 69, making her the highest-ranked Filipino player in WTA history. Her breakthrough moment came at the Miami Open, where she defeated top-ranked players, including Iga Świątek and Madison Keys, to reach the semifinals—a first for a Filipino in the Open Era .

The identity of Eala’s new coach remains undisclosed, but the comparison to Nadal suggests someone with a deep understanding of the sport’s demands and a commitment to pushing players to their limits. Given Nadal’s own rigorous training habits and his emphasis on mental and physical endurance, it’s plausible that Eala’s new coach shares similar philosophies.

As Eala prepares for Wimbledon, the tennis world is abuzz with anticipation. Will her new coach’s unconventional methods lead to a breakthrough performance on one of tennis’s grandest stages? Only time will tell.