Alexandra Eala's Handshake Sparks Controversy at Italian Open
"You people have sad lives" - Alexandra Eala fans slam criticism of Filipino after 'sweaty' Elena Rybakina handshake at Italian Open
Sportskeeda
Image: Sportskeeda
Filipino tennis player Alexandra Eala faced criticism after wiping her hand following a handshake with Elena Rybakina at the 2026 Italian Open. Fans quickly defended Eala, stating the gesture was normal after a sweaty match. Eala lost to Rybakina in the third round and will next compete in Strasbourg ahead of the French Open.
- 01Alexandra Eala lost to Elena Rybakina with a score of 4-6, 3-6.
- 02Eala's gesture of wiping her hand after the handshake drew criticism from some fans.
- 03Supporters defended Eala, explaining that sweaty hands are common in tennis.
- 04Elena Rybakina will face Karolina Pliskova in the next round of the Italian Open.
- 05Eala aims to improve her form at the upcoming WTA 500 event in Strasbourg.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
In a recent match at the 2026 Italian Open, Alexandra Eala, a 20-year-old Filipino tennis player, lost to World No. 2 Elena Rybakina with a score of 4-6, 3-6. Following the match, Eala shook hands with Rybakina but was criticized for wiping her hand on her clothing, which some fans deemed disrespectful. However, many of Eala's supporters defended her actions, emphasizing that both players were sweaty after a competitive match. Fans expressed their frustration on social media, stating that the criticism was unwarranted. Eala's next appearance will be at the WTA 500 event in Strasbourg, where she hopes to refine her performance ahead of the 2026 French Open. Rybakina, on the other hand, is set to compete against Karolina Pliskova in the fourth round of the tournament.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Reader Poll
Do you think athletes should be criticized for post-match gestures?
Connecting to poll...
Read the original article
Visit the source for the complete story.