PH in talks to host first-ever WTA 125 tournament in Manila

Metro Manila, Philippines - The Philippines moves closer to hosting the inaugural WTA 125 Philippine Women's Open, which is targeted to run from Jan. 26 to Feb. 1, 2026.

This was discussed during a meeting between Philippine Tennis Association secretary-general John Rey Tiangco and Philippine Sports Commission chairman Patrick Gregorio on Sept. 29.

There is also a plan to open the Rizal Memorial Tennis Courts to the public.

“Our partnership with the Philippine Sports Commission paves the way for a new chapter in Philippine tennis,” Tiangco said in a statement.

The WTA 125, alongside the WTA 1000, 500, and 250 tournaments, is the second highest level of women’s tennis below the WTA Tour which has the four grand slams.

Players who win in the WTA 125 tournaments increase their overall ranking points to earn either main draw or qualifying draw entry to WTA Tour tournaments.

“This is more than a tournament. This is about giving our athletes the chance to test themselves against the world’s best, inspiring the next generation, and placing the Philippines firmly on the global tennis map. The greatest champions began their journeys on public courts,” Gregorio said.

The popularity of tennis in the country is steadily rising with local ace Alex Eala continuing to make a mark on the international stage.

Having a WTA event in Manila would not only bring the brightest stars but also give homegrown talents a chance to shine on home soil.

The Philippines is already confirmed to host the International Tennis Federation (ITF) J30 Tournament from late November to Dec. 7, 2025.