Marcos congratulates Alex Eala for historic run in 2025 Miami Open

Filipino tennis ace Alex Eala waves to fans while leaving the court after her match against Jessica Pegula in a women's singles semifinal of the Miami Open on Thursday, March 27, 2025. Photo by: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images/REUTERS

President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. on Saturday extended his congratulations to rising tennis star Alex Eala for her stellar performance in this year's Miami Open.

"We would like to congratulate our tennis phenomenon, Alex Eala, on her historic and amazing run in the 2025 Miami Open," Marcos said in his Instagram post.

"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," the President said.

The 19-year-old took the tournament by storm, defeating three Grand Slam champions in Jelena Ostapenko (Round of 64), Madison Keys (Round of 32), and Iga Swiatek (quarterfinals).

Entering the competition as a wildcard, Eala's Cinderella run in the Miami Open came to a close on Friday as she fell short against world no. 4 Jessica Pegula, 7-6(3), 5-7, 6-3 in the semifinals.

With her semis stint, Eala is expected to earn prize money worth USD 332,160 and 390 ranking points. She is now poised to vault into the Women's Tennis Association (WTA) Top 100 and qualify for upcoming Grand Slam tournaments.

Marcos described Eala's feat as "an inspiration to everyone, especially to ordinary Filipinos who face life's daily challenges with the same grit and determination."

"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," he said.

Eala earlier said that she was "lucky" to be able to experience the events she had gone through in the Miami Open.

"Vamos, Alex! Mabuhay ang atletang Pilipino!" Marcos said. — VDV, GMA Integrated News

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