Romero, PH-Globalport battle world’s best in US Open Polo Championship

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Mikee Romero and the Globalport Polo team make history as the first Filipino crew to compete in the US Open Polo Championship

MANILA, Philippines – The Philippines makes a milestone in the 2025 US Open Polo Championship when Mikee Romero and his Globalport Polo team compete against the world’s best from March to April in Wellington, Florida.

This will be the first time the renowned tournament will feature a Filipino and an Asian-based squad in Globalport Polo.

The qualification of Globalport signals the growing influence of the Philippines in international polo and brings excitement to the sport in the Southeast Asian region.

While Romero, a sportsman and SEA Games bronze medalist, has represented the country in several international polo competitions, it will be his first appearance in the 120-year event.

A former varsity cager, Romero has long been involved in basketball, cycling, shooting, volleyball, and polo, among other sports.

“It’s a big honor for me to represent the country in this US Open,” said Romero, serving out his third term as 1-Pacman Party List representative this year. “While qualifying for the US Open is accomplishment enough, we hope to make an impact on the competition as we mount a challenge on the dominance of the established powers of the polo world.”

Argentina’s Barto Castagnola, ranked No. 2 in the world, will spearhead Globalport Polo.

Castanola, winner of the Argentine Open and the UK Gold Cup, will be supported by 17-year-old Beltran Laughle, a six-goaler regarded as one of the sport’s most promising young talents.

Completing the team is American-born Lucas Alberdi, known for his strategic approach and solid performance on the field.

The 2024 US Open Polo served as the backdrop for the Netflix series Polo and generated widespread interest in the sport. – Rappler.com