Bongbong Marcos lauds Alex Eala for unbelievable Miami Open run

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'I'm sure that the elusive championship title is within reach soon,' President Marcos Jr. says in a statement congratulating Filipina tennis star Alex Eala for her historic feat in Miami

MANILA, Philippines – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. commended Alex Eala for her unprecedented run in the Miami Open that saw the Filipina tennis star capture the heart of the nation and also the world’s attention.

Eala put the country on the edge of its seat every time she pulled off an upset against Grand Slam champions, taking down world No. 2 Iga Swiatek, No. 5 Madison Keys, and No. 25 Jelena Ostapenko to become the first Filipino to reach the semifinals of a Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) 1000 event.

“We would like to congratulate our tennis phenomenon, Alex Eala, on her historic and amazing run in the 2025 Miami Open. Truly, what you did showed the whole world what a Filipino athlete is all about — determined, steadfast, and never the one to back away from any challenges,” Marcos said.

“More importantly, Alex’s unprecedented feat serves as an inspiration to everyone, especially to ordinary Filipinos who face life’s daily challenges with the same grit and determination.”

Eala saw her historic campaign come to a halt at the hands of world No. 4 Jessica Pegula, but not without pushing the American veteran to the limit.

Bucking an ankle injury, the 19-year-old dragged Pegula to a deciding set and went neck and neck with one of the best hard court players in the world.

“We are one with the entire nation in thanking Alex for her sacrifices and hard work in her quest for glory and honor. I’m sure that the elusive championship title is within reach soon,” said Marcos.

Already the highest-ranked Filipina tennis player in history as she notched a career-high No. 134 in January, Eala will debut in the top 100 when the WTA releases its new rankings on Monday, March 31, as she is poised to rise to No. 75.

Her new ranking will make her eligible for a direct entry to the Grand Slam tournaments, with the French Open coming up in May. – Rappler.com