MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Tuesday hailed Alexandra “Alex” Eala’s historic triumph at the Mubadala DC Open after the Filipina tennis sensation became the first Filipino and first Filipina in the Open Era to capture a WTA 500 singles title, calling her latest feat another milestone that has brought pride to the nation.
In a social media post shortly after Eala’s title-clinching victory, Marcos praised the 21-year-old tennis star for once again making history and inspiring a new generation of Filipino athletes.
“Alex Eala does it again. The Philippines now has its first WTA 500 champion,” the Chief Executive wrote on his Facebook page.
Marcos said Eala’s breakthrough victory further elevated Philippine tennis on the world stage.
“Congratulations on yet another historic achievement. You continue to redefine what is possible for Philippine tennis and inspire countless young Filipinos to dream without limits,” he said.
The President added that the entire nation is celebrating Eala’s latest accomplishment.
“Kasama mo ang sambayanang Pilipino sa pagdiriwang ng panibagong tagumpay na ito,” Marcos said. “Mabuhay ka, Alex!”
Eala etched her name in Philippine sports history after staging a stunning comeback to defeat world No. 3 Jessica Pegula, 4-6, 6-4, 6-0, in the Mubadala DC Open final in Washington, D.C.
The victory also earned the Victorias City, Negros Occidental native a career-high No. 20 in the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) world rankings, on top of her being the first Filipina in the Open Era to win a WTA Tour singles crown.
Marcos has repeatedly recognized Eala’s achievements on the international stage, describing her success as a source of national pride and an inspiration for young Filipinos aspiring to excel in sports./PN
