The Philippine Tennis Association is pushing for Alex Eala to play in the 2025 SEA Games

The Philippine Tennis Association (PHILTA) is eager for Filipino tennis sensation Alex Eala to represent the country in the upcoming 2025 Southeast Asian Games (SEA Games), set to take place in Thailand later this year.

PHILTA executive director Tonette Mendoza was present at the recent Philippine Sports Association Forum, which took place at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex, where she confirmed that Eala is trying to fit the event into her packed 2025 schedule.

“We are hoping she could play for the Philippines. Let’s all pray she does. She is trying to fit it into her schedule, but she seems very excited, so we really hope she can manage it,” Mendoza said.

If the 20-year-old does participate in the 2025 SEA Games, she will have an opportunity to win her first gold medal at the competition after claiming three bronze medals in various tennis events at the 2021 edition held in Hanoi, Vietnam.

PHILTA is also focused on moving up the Davis Cup Asia-Oceania promotional rankings, with the Philippines currently preparing for Group III as they aim to secure a return to Group II, a tier they once regularly competed in prior to their suspension by the International Tennis Federation (ITF).

From a young girl in Quezon City to defeating grand slam champions on the world stage, Alex Eala’s journey is more than just a tennis success story—it is a spark that could ignite a fire in Philippine tennis. pic.twitter.com/9OTqZ217KN

— Tinig ng Plaridel (@tinigngplaridel) July 29, 2025

“I think we are still expected to win that Group III. I believe we can still win. It’s a slow climb, but we’re hoping to return to Group II,” she added.

It’s worth noting that the Philippines were once regular competitors in Group II, alongside fellow Southeast Asian powers Thailand and Indonesia.

Eala’s international exploits have served as an inspiration to Philippines Davis Cup team member Jed Olivarez, who said it is always an honor to represent the national flag on the international stage.

“It’s always an honor to represent the country. Ang laki ng honor na binibigay ni Eala sa bansa. And we hope na mas maging inspirasyon siya for us and other aspiring Filipino athletes,” Olivarez said.

Olivarez boasts a perfect 7-0 record in the Davis Cup, dating back to the team’s campaign in Group V last year. The Philippines are expected to face the likes of Saudi Arabia, Vietnam, and Singapore in Group III.

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