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Alex Eala, Jordan Clarkson bond over Filipino pride, culture at US Open

Sports

Alex Eala, Jordan Clarkson bond over Filipino pride, culture at US Open

By Kristel Satumbaga-Villar

At A Glance

In a video posted on social media, the 21-year-old Eala shared a light moment with the New York Knicks guard as they talked about how special being a Filipino is and how their representation of the flag can bring a source of inspiration and unity to the people.

Alex Eala, right, and Jordan Clarkson share a chat. (ESPN Women Instagram)

Alex Eala, right, and Jordan Clarkson share a chat. (ESPN Women Instagram)

Filipino pride took the spotlight as Alex Eala and Fil-American NBA star Jordan Clarkson proudly showcased their culture during their meeting at the ongoing U.S. Open in New York.

In a video posted on social media, the 21-year-old Eala shared a light moment with the New York Knicks guard as they talked about how special being a Filipino is and how their representation of the flag can bring a source of inspiration and unity to the people.

“I wear my culture on my sleeve. I'm sure you can understand. It brings so many people together,” said Eala in a video uploaded by ESPNW on Instagram.

“It's crazy that I'm meeting you and how people can connect through culture and just nostalgia,” she added. “I think it's a really powerful thing. You know when you got Filipino blood.”

The two sports stars also talked about the and passionate support Filipino fans give, especially to athletes competing on the biggest stages.

Clarkson, who once played for Gilas Pilipinas in the country’s hosting of the 2023 FIBA World Cup, also added that 2026 has been a big year for the Philippines.

“No, seriously. We're doing a lot for the country and the culture,” said Clarkson. “I think this has been a big year for the culture, for the Philippines…. I'm so proud of you.”

For Eala, she's just doing her part of promoting tennis in the basketball-frenzy Philippines.

The crowd-favorite Filipina is scheduled to meet American qualifier Mary Stoiana in the opening round.

Related Tags

Alex Eala Jordan Clarkson US Open

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