Alex Eala’s homecoming: A champion’s return to her roots

**media[28066]**SPEAKING OUTAfter a whirlwind season that saw her break barriers on the global tennis stage, Alex Eala returned home to the Philippines—not just as a world-ranked athlete, but as a beacon of hope and pride for a nation hungry for sporting heroes.Fresh off her historic Wimbledon debut and a runner-up finish at the Eastbourne Open, Eala—now World No. 56—graced the opening of the PHINMA International Junior Tennis Championships at the Manila Polo Club. Addressing young athletes, she shared heartfelt advice: “Dream big, take it step by step, and never underestimate the little things.”But her homecoming wasn’t just about tennis. It was about reconnecting with the institutions and people who helped shape her journey—including a meaningful visit to the Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI), where she was welcomed not just as an endorser, but as family.A sentimental stop at BPIEala’s relationship with BPI runs deep. Her parents met while working at the bank three decades ago, making her partnership with the institution more than symbolic—it’s personal. As BPI’s ambassador since 2022, Eala embodies the bank’s mission to empower Filipinos to “Do More.”BPI executives and directors, led by Chair Jaime Augusto Zobel de Ayala (JAZA), President TG Limcaoco and HR Head Gina Eala (her Tita), celebrated her achievements, reaffirming their support for her Grand Slam dreams. “Alex’s story is not just one of success on the tennis court,” said BPI Chief Customer and Marketing Officer Cathy Santamaria, “but a testament to perseverance, discipline, and the power of a strong support system.”Back to school, back to heartEala also visited her alma mater, Colegio San Agustin Makati, where she was greeted with smiles, selfies, and a Santo Niño statue—a symbol of faith and protection. Her presence turned an ordinary school day into an unforgettable moment of inspiration.Looking aheadWith the Canadian Open and US Open on the horizon, Eala’s journey continues. But her brief return home reminded everyone that greatness begins with roots—and that even global stars need grounding.In every handshake, every selfie, every autograph, every word of encouragement, and every quiet moment of reflection, Alex Eala’s homecoming was more than a celebration. It was a rallying cry for every Filipino dreamer: You can start here, and you can go anywhere. (totingbunye2000@gmail.com)