Manila to make WTA history with inaugural Philippine Women’s Open in January 2026

Manila is set to serve up a historic moment for Philippine tennis next year, as the city will officially host its first-ever Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) tournament. 

The Philippine Women’s Open has been added to the 2026 WTA calendar, elevating Manila onto the global tennis stage with a WTA 125 event.

Scheduled from January 26 to 31, 2026, the tournament will be contested on hard courts, featuring a 32-player singles draw and 16-team doubles bracket, with a total prize commitment of $115,000. 

This milestone event signals a new chapter for Philippine tennis, offering local fans the chance to witness world-class competition on home soil.

Patrick Gregorio, chair of the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), expressed excitement about the event and hinted at a possible local star joining the field.

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HOME COURT MOMENT IN SIGHT

The WTA Tour has officially added the Philippine Women’s Open to its 2026 calendar, bringing Filipina tennis ace Alex Eala closer to competing on home soil.

The tournament will take place from January 26–31 and will be classified as a WTA 125 event. pic.twitter.com/5JvVbLal7i

— One Sports (@OneSportsPHL) November 26, 2025

“We are expecting Filipina tennis sensation Alex Eala to participate, and she could only skip the competition for one good reason — if she advances in the 2026 Australian Open, which she would take part in,” Gregorio said.

The scheduling of the Philippine Women’s Open coincides with the Australian Open, which runs from January 12 to February 1, 2026, meaning Eala’s participation is contingent on her performance Down Under.

The PSC confirmed the development in a Facebook post on Wednesday night, noting that Gregorio spearheaded a coordination meeting with government agencies and the Philippine Tennis Association (PHILTA) to make the tournament a reality. 

The collaboration reflects a growing commitment to developing tennis infrastructure and opportunities for local talent, while also positioning Manila as a rising hub for international sporting events.

The Philippine Women’s Open promises not only thrilling tennis action but also a unique opportunity for young Filipinos to witness world-class players and for the country to further establish itself on the global tennis map.

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