Serena Williams’ coach Rennae Stubbs spoke about receiving death threats and derogatory comments from Alex Eala’s fans after she offered her opinion on the Filipina star’s participation in the WTA Finals.

All eight singles spots for the WTA Finals in Indian Wells are filled, with Eala’s name not on the list. After that, Filipino tennis fans criticized the list and questioned why they didn’t add Eala. A few fans also argued that Eala should have been on the list, given her growing popularity. However, Stubbs took a swipe at Eala’s fans, calling them an example of ‘internet stan culture,’ meaning fan bases that fervently support a public figure. She added that the qualification is based on points earned, not popularity.

One tennis fan agreed with Stubbs but said it was wrong of Stubbs to judge all Eala fans. Serena Williams’ coach clarified that she did not blame all fans.

“Also i didn’t say ALL!”

Stubbs further revealed that receiving death threats and offensive comments from some fans has been distressing.

“I know. It’s why i didn’t say all. But after death threats and disgusting comments coming from some fans, it’s kinda rough,” Stubbs wrote.

Alex Eala won her first WTA Tour singles title at the 2026 Mubadala DC Open, defeating Jessica Pegula in the final.

Serena Williams’ Coach Rennae Stubbs reacted to Elina Svitolina and Gael Monfils’ separation

Serena Williams’ coach Rennae Stubbs reacted to Elina Svitolina and Gael Monfils’ separation, drawing heavy criticism. On her podcast, Stubbs said people shouldn’t judge the two tennis players, since no one knows what happens privately in a relationship, especially one in the public eye.

“The one thing I will never do is cast a stone at any relationship, especially a public one. You don’t know what’s happening in a relationship or a marriage. You don’t know what public persona they are putting out there, or how they are struggling in their own lives. We have no idea. They obviously both love each other and came to this conclusion, which was not easy, especially sharing a child,” Stubbs said.

Serena Williams’ coach, Stubbs, added that she was saddened by their decision and acknowledged how difficult separation is when you have a child.

“I send them both so much love. I like them both so much as people; I don’t know the ins and outs of the relationship; I only ever saw them happy together. But obviously this was important for Elina to put this out publicly because I am sure every time she is out she will be asked, ‘Where’s Gael?’ and the same for Gael. It would be very, very hard for them. I am just sad about this.”

Svitolina announced her decision through a lengthy post on Instagram and stated that her decision was influenced by the emotional struggles she faced amid the ongoing war in Ukraine.