Coco Gauff, the world No. 3 and former doubles No. 1, surprised fans by partnering with 19-year-old Filipina rising star Alexandra Eala for the women’s doubles at the 2025 Italian Open. In a post-match interview after their first-round win on May 10, Gauff revealed that the partnership began with a bold Instagram DM from Eala, who asked her to play. “She slid in my DMs and asked me to play. I was like, ‘Sure, why not?’” Gauff said, smiling, as reported by Tennis.com. The duo, who barely knew each other, had only exchanged a quick “hi” at the Madrid Open in April, making Eala’s outreach a spontaneous move that sparked their collaboration.[](https://www.sportskeeda.com/tennis/news-coco-gauff-reveals-reason-behind-choosing-alexandra-eala-italian-open-doubles-partner)
Gauff was impressed by Eala’s initiative and her stellar junior doubles record, including titles at the 2020 Australian Open and 2021 French Open girls’ events. “She’s a killer in doubles, two junior Slams and probably future ones too,” Gauff noted, highlighting Eala’s potential. She also valued the chance to connect with a peer close in age, saying, “Obviously, she’s such a nice person. When there’s people finally my age on tour, I’m glad to interact.” The relaxed vibe of their partnership, Gauff added, offered a refreshing break from the pressures of her singles campaign, where she reached the quarter-finals after defeating Emma Raducanu.
Their chemistry paid off immediately, as Gauff and Eala cruised past Alexandra Panova and Fanny Stollar 6-3, 6-1 in the Round of 32, displaying seamless coordination. Eala, ranked No. 70 in singles but No. 456 in doubles, benefited from Gauff’s experience, having won nine doubles titles, including the 2024 French Open. Gauff encouraged Eala to play doubles more, advising, “Doubles helped me a lot in that space, having some time on court where it’s a little less stressful,” per The Tennis Gazette.[]
For Eala, the partnership was a chance to learn from a Grand Slam champion after a tough singles loss to Marta Kostyuk (6-0, 6-1). The wildcard duo faced Italians Tyra Grant and Lisa Pigato next, aiming for a deep run. Gauff’s decision to team up with Eala, driven by the Filipina’s bold DM and shared youth, has created a compelling narrative at the Foro Italico, blending mentorship with competitive flair.
