Alexandra Eala has become a focal point of national expectation in the Philippines, and Coco Gauff told reporters she cannot identify with that burden. Gauff, who is ranked world number four, said Eala's role as a breakthrough national figure puts a different kind of pressure on the 21-year-old than she has experienced.

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The Story in Pictures

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Image caption, Alexandra Eala beat Mary Stoiana and Oleksandra Oliynykova to reach the US Open third round

Gauff noted Eala's string of milestones this season, including becoming the first Filipino to win a WTA singles title, rising to 18th in the world rankings, reaching the fourth round at Wimbledon and progressing to the third round at the US Open. Gauff also referenced the public recognition Eala received at home, including a reception at Malacañang Palace with President Ferdinand Marcos, as part of what sets the Filipino player apart.

"No, I can't at all, because she's the first Filipino player to break a lot of the barriers that she's done, especially on the female side," Gauff said. She compared Eala's national significance to that of Manny Pacquiao, adding, "When you speak of athletes from the Philippines, she's doing similar things to what Manny Pacquiao is doing for her country."

Gauff contrasted that spotlight with her own path in the United States. "I'm lucky to be from the US, where we had a lot of icons to look up to, people who have already broken down doors for me to be here where I am," she said. "I can't really empathise in that aspect. The only way I can is maybe just the hype of everyone expecting you to win every single match."

She also expressed respect for Eala's situation. "From the outside looking in, she has more pressure," Gauff said. "I have a lot of respect for her and what she's doing, but I can't really empathise. I feel like she has more pressure than I do."

Gauff's comments underline how Eala's rapid rise has shifted the expectations around her career as the US Open continues. Gauff will next face Iva Jovic in the tournament's fourth round, while Eala's historic achievements and official recognition have reframed her matches as events that carry national significance.