Metro Manila, Philippines – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Saturday showered Filipino tennis sensation Alex Eala with praise for her historic campaign at the Miami Open.
“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,” Marcos said in a statement.
The president congratulated the 19-year-old wild card for her Cinderella run which included wins over five-time Grand Slam champion and world no. 2 Iga Swiatek, reigning Australian Open champion Madison Keys, and 2017 French Open winner Jelena Ostapenko.
Eala bowed to world no. 4 Jessica Peluga in their heated midnight semifinals match, 6(3)-7, 7-5, 3-6, at the Hard Rock Stadium on Friday.
READ: Alex Eala’s dream run in Miami Open ends after semis loss
Marcos lauded Eala for her unprecedented feat which he called an inspiration to Filipinos who have the “same grit and determination.”
“Truly, what you did showed the whole world what a Filipino athlete is all about – determined, steadfast, and never the one to back away from any challenges,” Marcos said.
Olympians EJ Obiena and Nesthy Petecio previously also praised the tennis ace for her sensational campaign and her well-fought semifinals match against Pegula.
World boxing champ Manny Pacquiao also lauded the tennis ace and said Eala has the “heart of a true champion.”
