Coco Gauff discusses pressure facing Alexandra Eala at US Open

Coco Gauff addressed the competitive pressure on Alexandra Eala during a press conference following her own third-round victory over Cristina Bucsa. Gauff noted the unique challenges Eala faces as a trailblazing athlete for the Philippines, comparing the expectation placed on her to that of Manny Pacquiao. While Gauff admitted she cannot fully empathize with Eala's specific national burden due to her own experience within the American tennis structure, she acknowledged the shared stress of needing to win consistently. Alexandra Eala concluded her run at the US Open on Saturday following a 7-5, 3-6, 7-5 loss to Iva Jovic at Arthur Ashe Stadium. Gauff maintains a friendship with Eala, having competed together in doubles previously. Gauff is scheduled to face Iva Jovic in the Round of 16 on Monday.

• 12:02 PMYahoo Sports — “I’m Lucky To Be From US” – Coco Gauff Explains Why She ‘Can’t Empathize’ With Alex Eala Despite Hailing Filipina