The pre-tournament events at the US Open, it seems, also have their fair share of drama, romance, and a touch of madness.
On August 27, 2026, in New York, during a Nike event at House of Innovation on Fifth Avenue, literally on the eve of the main draw of the US Open.
A fan and tennis blogger Tony Zhao got down on one knee in front of Alexandra Eala and offered her a Ring Pop — a ring-shaped candy. Eala laughed and almost immediately called her father Mike, who came over, crossed his arms, and with a very expressive look "took control of the situation"
It all looked almost solemn — were it not for one important detail.
Instead of a real ring, the fan handed the athlete a Ring Pop — a lollipop shaped like a huge gemstone.
So technically, there was a ring.
It's just that it could be eaten.
Romance on a whole new level
The situation was so unexpected that Eala didn't lose her composure, but simply laughed.
And, as often happens in the best comedy scenes, she immediately called her father to see what was going on.
She seemed to understand perfectly: such a moment cannot be left without family approval.
And that's where the story got even better.
The main character — Dad
While the fan was probably already mentally picking a wedding date, Alexandra's father's reaction turned the whole thing into a little performance.
It was that reaction that made the episode truly viral and funny.
Because it's one thing to make a joking proposal with a candy ring.
And quite another when the athlete's dad is also watching.
The tension was almost like a tie-break.
The sweetest part of this story
There was no awkwardness or irritation in the whole scene — only lightness, laughter, and a good mood.
It turned out to be one of those rare viral moments where no one looked foolish, and everyone just got a boost of good spirits.
Though, you must admit, the very phrasing is already magnificent:
a tennis player got a proposal before the US Open — and was given a ring that could, if desired, be eaten before she even answered.
The conclusion is simple
The US Open had barely begun, and the romantic match had already taken place.
And if in big tennis everything is decided by serve, return, and character, in this story the bet was clearly placed on something else:
on courage, humor, and a strawberry Ring Pop.
