“Eala mania” is making its presence felt at the US Open, with tournament organizers acknowledging the strong Filipino support surrounding Alexandra Eala.

US Open Tournament Director Eric Butorac said the tournament has embraced the growing attention around the 20-year-old Filipina, whose matches have drawn loud and energetic support from Filipino fans.

Butorac said organizers already saw that enthusiasm during Fan Week, when Eala faced American Iva Jovic in the Stars of the Open exhibition.

“We saw some of it, that crowd turned up there,” Butorac said, describing the atmosphere during the match as “electric.”

He added that Eala has also made a positive impression behind the scenes because of her willingness to interact with fans and people around the tournament.

“She’s so friendly to everyone behind the scenes. She wants to meet people, she wants to engage, she wants to do everything,” Butorac said.

The growing Filipino following also played a role in where Eala’s opening match was scheduled.

Butorac said tournament officials believed her first match needed to be held at one of the US Open’s major stadiums, leading organizers to place her at Louis Armstrong Stadium.

“We knew it had to be on a major stadium,” he said.

He added that interest in the session was already increasing, saying he looked forward to seeing Filipino fans fill the stands and support Eala.

“It’s just amazing to see. I can’t wait to have her out there, late at night, and see all the Filipino crowd behind her. It’s gonna be really special,” Butorac said.

Eala is set to open her US Open campaign against American Mary Stoiana.

The strong turnout expected for her match reflects the growing support Eala has built among Filipinos as she continues to establish herself on one of tennis’ biggest stages.