President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. honored tennis star Alex Eala on Monday for her historic Wimbledon performance, recognizing her as an athlete who represents the best qualities of Filipinos through her achievements and character.
During a homecoming reception at Malacañang, Marcos presented Eala with a Presidential Citation for becoming the first Filipina to achieve unprecedented success on the international professional tennis stage.
The citation recognized Eala’s “exceptional talent, perseverance, and unwavering determination,” as well as her role in inspiring young Filipino athletes and bringing pride to the country.
“You have brought so much pride to the Philippines, to the Filipinos, and not only because of your success, but also because of the grace with which you handled that success,” Marcos said.
“Because the way you play and the way you comport yourself makes us proud. Because you show the greatest, best qualities of Filipinos. So you remind us why we are a great race,” he added.
Eala made history at the 2026 Wimbledon Championships after becoming the first Filipino player to reach the Round of 16 in a Grand Slam singles tournament.
Her campaign included a third-round victory over defending Wimbledon champion and then-world No. 3 Iga Swiatek before she fell to Italy’s Jasmine Paolini in a three-set match in the fourth round.
Following her Wimbledon run, Eala achieved a career-high No. 28 ranking in the Women’s Tennis Association standings.
Marcos said Eala’s performance united Filipinos worldwide, with many following and supporting her matches throughout the tournament.
“We are all behind you. The entire Filipino nation has come to love you because of your sweetness and grace,” the President said.
He also praised Eala’s discipline and mentality as an athlete, recalling how she immediately shifted her focus toward her next goals after securing victories.
“That is a sign of a true fighter, a true champion… You allow yourself to be happy for three minutes and then you start thinking about your next match,” Marcos said.
For her part, Eala thanked Marcos for the recognition, saying it represented acknowledgment of the years of preparation and sacrifices behind her success.
“I feel very seen. Hearing that come from you, I feel like all the hard work that I’ve done is seen. All the hours that aren’t on TV are seen and validated and appreciated,” Eala said.
She also vowed to continue representing the Philippines in international competitions.
“Lubos kong ipinagmamalaki ang pagiging Pilipino (I take great pride in being Filipino). I carry the flag with me wherever I go,” Eala said.
“I promise that I will continue to represent the Philippines in the best way that I possibly can,” she added.
Comments