President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. congratulated Filipino tennis star Alex Eala on her “historic and amazing run” at the 2025 Miami Open, praising her resilience and determination on the international stage.
“Truly, what you did showed the whole world what a Filipino athlete is all about — determined, steadfast, and never one to back away from any challenge,” Mr. Marcos said in a social media post on Saturday.
“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…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 added.
The 19-year-old Eala, ranked No. 140 in the world, captivated tennis fans with a stunning performance throughout the tournament, scoring impressive wins over three Grand Slam champions: 25th seed Jelena Ostapenko, reigning Australian Open champion Madison Keys, and former world No. 1 Iga Swiatek.
Eala, however, fell short against world no. 4 Jessica Pegula in the semifinals of the Miami Open on Friday.
“I literally gave everything I had. I’m half tape, I’m like a mummy. I did everything and I have no regrets,” Eala said after ending her Miami Open in fighting fashion.
For Eala, the Miami Open journey has been remarkable, cementing her as a rising star in women’s tennis.
“To have a week like this, the stars need to align, and they did this week. Hopefully, I can keep that up. That is my goal now,” she said.
In a separate statement, the Presidential Communications Office said Eala made the country proud and showed the world a “great fight,” despite her loss to Pegula in their semifinal bout.
“Alex surmounted a string of setbacks in her journey to be among the best in the Miami Open 2025. Through her sheer persistence, Alex proved that anything is possible,” the PCO said.
“We, Filipinos, are like Alex. We are all tenacious in the toughest of environments. We thrive and excel in the harshest conditions all over the world.”
Editor’s Note: This is an updated article. Originally posted with the headline “Marcos praises Eala’s historic Miami Open run.”