ROMUALDEZ ON EALA’S HISTORIC TENNIS WIN: ‘THE WHOLE COUNTRY IS PROUD OF YOU’

SPEAKER Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez on Thursday extended his heartfelt congratulations to Filipino tennis sensation Alexandra Eala for her remarkable performance at the 2025 Miami Open, saying her victories over top-ranked opponents have not only showcased her exceptional talent but have also brought immense pride to the Philippines.

“Alex Eala’s journey in the Miami Open is nothing short of extraordinary. Defeating world-class players like Iga Swiatek, Madison Keys, and Jelena Ostapenko demonstrates her strong determination and skill on the court,” the House leader said.

Eala, a 19-year-old wildcard entrant, made headlines by ousting World No. 2 Iga Swiatek with a commanding 6-2, 7-5 victory in the quarterfinals of the Miami Open, a Women’s Tennis Association 1000 event.

Prior to this, she secured wins against 2025 Australian Open champion Madison Keys and former French Open champion Jelena Ostapenko, marking her as a formidable force in the tournament.

“Her performance is proof of the heights that Filipino athletes can reach on the global stage. Alex embodies the spirit of perseverance and excellence that inspires our youth to dream big and work hard,” Speaker Romualdez added.

The Speaker said Eala’s ascent in the Miami Open is a source of hope and motivation for aspiring athletes nationwide, and her journey underscores the importance of dedication, discipline and the relentless pursuit of one’s goals.

“Sa bawat palo ng raketa ni Alex, dala niya ang pangarap ng bawat Pilipinong nagnanais magtagumpay sa larangan ng palakasan.

Siya ay isang buhay na patunay na ang talento at sipag ay maaaring magdala sa atin sa tagumpay,” the Speaker remarked.

As Eala prepares for her semifinal match, Speaker Romualdez extended his well-wishes.

“We stand united in cheering for Alex as she advances further in the tournament. May she continue to play with the same passion and determination that has brought her this far. The whole country is behind her, praying for her continued success,”  Romualdez said.

Eala’s achievements at the Miami Open have etched her name in Philippine sports history, setting a new benchmark for excellence in tennis.

Her story serves as a compelling narrative of how grit and talent can propel individuals to unprecedented heights.

“Alex’s journey reminds us all that with hard work and faith, no dream is too big. She has not only broken barriers but has also paved the way for future generations of Filipino tennis players to aim for global recognition,” Romualdez said.

PALACE TAKES PRIDE IN ALEX’ BIGGEST WIN AT MIAMI OPEN 2025

Malacañang also congratulated Eala for defeating Swiatek in straight sets in the quarterfinals of the Miami Open 2025.

The Pinay pride beat her Polish opponent, 6-2, 7-5 to secure her historic spot in the WTA Tour 1000 event.

“Isa po ito sa napakalaking tagumpay ng isang Pilipino. Ang Malacañang, ang Palasyo, ang Pangulo po ay ipinagmamalaki ang katulad  nating mga Pilipino na nagbibigay ng karangalan sa Pilipinas,” Presidential Communications Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said.

“Congratulations sa ating kababayan at hindi pa po dito nagtatapos ang ating pasasalamat sa mga kababayan natin na nagbibigay ng karangalan sa Pilipinas,” she said in a press briefing in Malacañang.

Eala, ranked 140th globally, is the first Filipina to reach the last eight of a Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) 1000 tournament.

The 19-year-old tennis player will face American and world no. 4 Jessica Pegula for a spot in the finals.

The semi-final showdown between Eala and Pegula will happen Thursday night (Friday, 8am Manila time).

The Filipina tennis player trained at the Rafa Nadal Academy in Mallorca, Spain.