AS the cheers for Alex Eala echoed far beyond championship point, both world No. 3 Jessica Pegula and Mubadala DC Open chairman Mark Ein singled out the sea of Filipino supporters for creating an atmosphere unlike any other at the tournament.
Introducing the finalists during the trophy ceremony, Ein couldn't help but marvel at the turnout despite the rain-delayed championship being moved to a Monday.
"This is the greatest crowd for a Monday final anyone has ever seen. You've blown us away," Ein told the fans.
READ: Alex Eala claims first tour title after ruling Mubadala DC Open
Pegula, who fell to Eala in three sets, admitted the partisan crowd wasn't easy to play against but welcomed the energy it brought to the tournament.
"It's not fun to play against, but I really appreciate the atmosphere. Congrats to your team and your coach," Pegula said.
The American then paid tribute to the Filipino supporters who packed the stands and waved Philippine flags throughout the week.
"Like Mark said, this is definitely the best Monday final crowd I've seen. I'm sure some people took off work. To all the Filipino fans, you guys are helping grow tennis around the world," she said.
The overwhelming support was the latest display of what has become the "Eala effect."
From her breakthrough run in Miami to Wimbledon and now Washington, the Filipina has consistently drawn packed crowds, with Filipino fans turning neutral venues into something that feels much closer to home.
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