The Philippine Tennis Association (PHILTA) said Sunday it has formally informed the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) of Alex Eala’s decision to represent the Philippines at the Asian Games and requested an exemption from any penalty for missing a WTA 1000 event.

PHILTA Secretary General John Rey Tiangco said the association fully supports Eala’s decision to compete for the Philippines and is coordinating with the WTA to protect her standing on the professional tour.

“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,” Tiangco said.

Eala has made it clear that representing the Philippines is an honor and that she is choosing to play for the national team, Tiangco said.

“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,” he said.

PHILTA Executive Director Tonette Mendoza said the association has yet to receive a decision from the WTA on whether Eala will face any sanction.

“Matagal na kaming nakikipag-ugnayan sa WTA dahil request namin talaga na makapaglaro si Alex (Eala) sa Asian Games. Until now, hinihintay pa rin namin ang decision ng WTA. Wala pa kaming nare-receive from WTA tungkol sa penalty or kung may penalty,” Mendoza said.

Tiangco said PHILTA is proud of Eala not only for her achievements on the tennis court but also for her decision to represent the country on one of Asia’s biggest sporting stages.

Eala’s participation in the Asian Games could conflict with a WTA 1000 tournament, prompting PHILTA to seek an exemption from the tour’s participation requirements.

PHILTA said it will continue coordinating with the WTA while awaiting its decision on Eala’s request.