First. #1
With these two simple words posted on social media, Alexandra Eala declared a new era for Philippine tennis.
In a career-defining moment, the 20-year-old Eala pulled off a 1-6, 7-5, 6-3 comeback victory over Hungary’s Panna Udvardy as she captured her first-ever Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) singles’ title at the Guadalajara 125 Open, becoming the first Filipino to ever achieve the feat.
“It was tough to adjust to the conditions. So, I wanna thank my team (of coaches) for helping me through the week,” said Eala, the second-seeded player in the tournament.
“Udvardy’s a really great person. It was a tough match today,” added Eala as she commended Udvardy for the toughness she also showed on the court.
Prize and rise
Eala’s first pro crown gave her the $15,500 (roughly P878,803.44) top purse, to go with the 160 points that catapulted her live WTA rankings to no. 61 from 75th, overtaking Cristina Bucsa by a point.
Eala’s breakthrough ride began earlier this year with a historic run at the Miami Open, where she defied expectations by defeating three Grand Slam champions, including world number two Iga Świątek, on her way to the semifinals.
This was followed by another impressive performance at the WTA 250 Eastbourne Open in June, when she reached the finals, but bowed to Australian Maya Joint.
Just last month, she etched her name in history by becoming the first Filipino in the Open Era to win a main draw match at a Grand Slam, with a thrilling come-from-behind victory over Clara Tauson at the US Open.
Salutations
Following her triumph in Guadalajara, social media erupted with an outpouring of congratulations from across the globe, led by prominent figures celebrating her success.
The Philippines’ own President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. declared Eala’s victory a win for the entire country, vowing to provide more support for Filipino athletes.
Eala’s fellow Filipino sports heroes and personalities were quick to join in, sharing messages of pride and admiration.
The country’s top pole vaulter Ernest John “EJ” Obiena took to Instagram to congratulate Eala.
“Winning titles looks good on you,” wrote Obiena as he reposted Eala’s photo showing her wearing a Mexican sombrero and displaying her small trophy during the awarding rites.
Philippine Sports Commission chairman Patrick Gregorio commended Eala for her accomplishment.
“Alex continues to make us very proud. Keep on going, Alex. I am sure you will change Philippine tennis forever. We are behind you,” said Gregorio.
Philippine Olympic Committee president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino also chimed in.
“We are proud of her for winning the WTA 125 tournament in Guadalajara. This is a first, another history for Philippine sports,” said Tolentino.
The Guadalajara finale
Eala’s Guadalajara triumph proved her resilience, a trait honed during her years at the prestigious Rafa Nadal Academy in Mallorca, Spain.
After a shaky first set, where she was overwhelmed, 1-6, Eala dug deep into the “no quit” mindset instilled in her by her mentors as she battled back in the second set, surviving a series of gruelling exchanges and showcasing the mental toughness that is a hallmark of the academy’s training.
The relentless pursuit allowed Eala to force a decisive third set and with momentum on her side, Eala found her rhythm, dominating the final frame to secure the championship and etch her name in the history books.
Eala’s time has come
Having achieved her first WTA crown, Eala now looks to continue her climb, carrying the hopes of her country with every swing of her racket.
And this Filipina superstar is just warming up, out to prove that her Guadalara triumph is just the “First. #1” of many more to come.
Timeline of Achievements
2009
Started tennis training at age 4
2020
Won Australian Open Junior Doubles Title
2021
Won French Open Junior Doubles Championship
2022
Historic win: First Filipino to win Junior Grand Slam Singles Title at the US Open
2024–2025
Reached career-high
WTA No. 56
Upcoming tournaments
Sao Paulo Open, Brazil
September 8 to 14, 2025
China Open (Beijing WTA 1000)
September 24 to October 5, 2025
Hong Kong Tennis Open (WTA 250)
October 27, 2025 to November 2, 2025
Editor’s Note: This is an updated article. Originally posted with the headline: “Eala wins first WTA title at 2025 Guadalajara Open”
