Pinoy tennis players look to Alex Eala’s success as motivation

The Filipino tennis community is optimistic about the future as Alexandra Eala continues to make waves on the global stage, setting new milestones that many see as a turning point for Philippine tennis.

Eala in 2025 became the first Filipino to clinch a Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) singles title after capturing the crown at the 2025 Guadalajara 125 Open in Mexico.

Her triumph was remarkable not only for the historic first, but for the way she did it: after losing the first set 1-6, she showed resilience and mental toughness, rallying to take the next two sets 7-5, 6-3.

Philippine Tennis Association (PHILTA) secretary general John Tiangco cited Eala’s achievements this season as added motivation for the rest of the country’s tennis team to take home medals in the upcoming Southeast Asian (SEA) Games.

“Our men and women’s teams are in high spirits and have prepared well for the 33rd Southeast Asian Games in Thailand. Adding to the excitement is Alex Eala’s participation as one of the flag bearers for the Philippines, for which I am very happy and grateful.” he said.

“Not only does her presence inspire our tennis squads, but it also inspires the entire 1,600-strong Philippine delegation,” he added. “We hope that tennis will continue to be a source of pride and honor for the country, with the help of Alex Eala and her other talented teammates.”

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PILIPINAS, STRONG 💪🏽

Alex Eala and Bryan Bagunas banner the near-1,600 athletes who will be reppin’ the flag in the 33rd Southeast Asian Games in Thailand! #SEAGames

📸: POC Media Pool pic.twitter.com/FWMz7MusFs

— SPIN.ph (@spinph) December 9, 2025

Earlier this year, Eala also became the first Filipina to reach a WTA singles final, at the 2025 Lexus Eastbourne Open in Great Britain,  narrowly missing the title but earning plaudits for her performance at the elite level.

Her string of achievements, from a main-draw Grand Slam breakthrough to becoming the highest-ranked Filipino ever on the WTA ladder, is generating renewed interest in tennis across the Philippines. Coaches, sports officials, and aspiring players are citing her success as proof that Filipinos can compete on the global stage.

In a sport where Philippine presence has historically been limited, Eala’s journey is igniting hope, and as she once said, the country has “a lot of hidden talent” as she hopes to inspire more youth to pick up rackets and pursue tennis seriously.

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