Alexandra Eala risks fine after choosing Asian Games over China Open

The Filipino has committed to chasing Asian Games gold, meaning she will not take part in the China Open. However, the decision has put her at odds with the WTA's participation regulations, which generally require players to enter every WTA 1000 event unless they are injured.

Although exemptions can be granted, Eala's request to miss the China Open was rejected by the WTA Tour. As a result, she could now be sanctioned for skipping the tournament, with the consequences potentially extending beyond a fine to a loss of ranking points.

The situation has also revived questions surrounding the tour's mandatory-event rules. Such regulations have previously been linked to questionable injury withdrawals, with some observers casting doubt on whether players are genuinely injured when missing events they are expected to attend.

Former players John Isner, Steve Johnson and Sam Querrey have spoken in support of Eala, arguing that she should be allowed to prioritise the Asian Games without being punished.

"1000% she should play [the Asian Games]," said Johnson on Nothing Major.

"If the WTA fine her, that is the dumbest thing that they could do. Do not fine her.

"I know that they have not made exceptions in the past for certain players, but there is different rules for everyone. I hate to say it, but there just is."

Isner added: "I'm with you. They should waive the fine. Her ranking is going to dip by virtue of not playing." 

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