Alex Eala explains why she is skipping China Open tournament after US Open exit

Alex Eala confirmed her status for the China Open after being eliminated from the US Open but it could have serious repercussions.

Eala was beaten by Iva Jovic in a third round contest at the Arthur Ashe Stadium in what was the Filipina's best finish in the tournament.

Despite the defeat, it has been a positive period for Eala , who won her first WTA singles title in Washington D.C. in August and has climbed to 18th in the rankings.

Eala has quickly developed into one of the biggest stars in the sport and her appearance at the US Open sparked a significant ticket price surge.

Fans want to see Eala continue to compete on the biggest stages, including Grand Slams and the WTA 1000.

Alex Eala confirms next tournament after US Open exit

The next event with a 1000 ranking points up for grabs is the China Open but Eala is not slated to participate.

The tournament takes place later this month because she will instead represent her native Philippines in the Asian Games, which is scheduled to take place at the same time.

Eala would have undoubtedly received huge support at the China Open but she has confirmed her plans - which do include the Singapore Open.

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After her loss to Jovic, Eala said: “Yes, before that I believe I will be in Singapore. “But yeah, I love playing and competing with the Philippines team and in the SEA, the Asian Games I’ve also done, I think it’s a really fun environment, I love being with the team.

“Especially this last SEA Games in December, I had such a great time and I think they’re really memories that will stick with me. You know, the Asian Games happens once every four years and yeah, I just found myself drawn to compete in that over other stuff.”

Alex Eala could face punishment for missing China Open

According to WTA regulations, those who are ranked high enough must participate in the four Grand Slams and the ten WTA 1000 events as they are seen as mandatory.

It has been reported that Eala could therefore be hit with a ranking points deduction and fined for not being part of the showpiece in Beijing.

Exemptions are given in the case of injuries, other medical issues and personal reasons.

It remains to be seen whether the Asian Games qualifies as a valid reasons but officials have requested a special exemption.

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“We have formally informed the WTA that Alex will be representing the Philippines at the Asian Games and have requested an exemption so she will not be penalized for missing a WTA 1000 event," PHILTA secretary-general and Navotas City Mayor John Tiangco told GMA News.

"Alex herself has made it clear that representing the Philippines is an honor and that she is choosing to play for the flag. We fully support that decision and are doing everything we can to ensure that choosing to represent her country does not come at the expense of her standing on the WTA Tour.