From Jordan Clarkson to Alyssa Valdez: Filipino stars laud Alex Eala’s historic win

Filipinos across the globe erupted in celebration after Alex Eala pulled off a stunning upset against World No. 14 Clara Tauson in the first round of the US Open on Sunday in New York (early Monday in Manila).   

The 19-year-old overcame a 5-1 deficit in the deciding set to secure a dramatic 6-3, 2-6, 7-6 (11) victory—marking a historic first for the Philippines in a Grand Slam event during the Open era.

The Quezon City native couldn’t hide her joy after the emotional win.

“I’m super over the moon with what I was able to do today, especially coming back in the third,” Eala shared.

Her achievement quickly drew an outpouring of support, not only from fans but also from some of the Philippines’ most recognizable athletes.

San Miguel Beermen guard Chris Ross, who was in attendance at the Grandstand, detailed the unforgettable experience on social media:  

“[I] Witnessed history!” he wrote. “I wanted my first major tournament match to be in the final weekend in Arthur Ashe Stadium, but once I had the opportunity to watch Alex Eala’s Round 1 at Grandstand, it was the best decision! She was magical out there.”

BROUGHT THE CHAMP SPIRIT

San Miguel Beermen’s Chris Ross shared his experience and the electric energy of the Filipino crowd after supporting Alex Eala in her first US Open win and watching the game live with his family in New York.#USOpen

IG | chrismross6 pic.twitter.com/902Wyn79L0

— One Sports (@OneSportsPHL) August 25, 2025

Ross went on to highlight the incredible fightback he witnessed:

“Down 5-1 in the final set and winning five straight games and then winning the tie break was legendary! I don’t know how many Filipinos were in the stands but it felt like it was the whole stadium! We really do travel everywhere and support our own! Definitely was a surreal experience!! Especially getting to be there with my family!”

Other Filipino sports stars also joined in the celebration. Among them were current and former Gilas Pilipinas players Jordan Clarkson, Kevin Quiambao, Gabe Norwood, Jack Animam, and Camille Clarin, along with Philippine women’s football captain Hali Long.

Volleyball icon Alyssa Valdez also took to social media to cheer Eala on, while national athletes and Olympians like EJ Obiena and Sam Catantan added their voices.

“Define laban. Boom!” Obiena posted.

With her first-round triumph in the books, Eala now sets her sights on the US Open’s second round. She is scheduled to return to action on Wednesday, August 27, where the Filipino community is expected to rally behind her once again.

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