Metro Manila, Philippines – Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong believes Filipino tennis star Alex Eala could become the first Southeast Asian to win a Grand Slam singles title, Malacañang said Wednesday.
Wong made the remark during his meeting with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. at the Istana in Singapore, where the two leaders also discussed ways to deepen bilateral cooperation.
Palace press officer Claire Castro said Wong congratulated Eala for her breakthrough performance at Wimbledon.
“Tiwala ang prime minister na si Alex Eala ang magiging kauna-unahang Southeast Asian na mag-uuwi ng Grand Slam title sa Wimbledon,” she said.
[Translation: The prime minister is confident that Alex Eala will become the first Southeast Asian to win a Grand Slam title at Wimbledon.]
Castro said Marcos shared Wong’s optimism.
“Kapwa nagpaabot ng paghanga ang dalawang lider sa tagumpay na dala ni Alex Eala sa Southeast Asia,” she said.
[Translation: Both leaders expressed admiration for the success Alex Eala has brought to Southeast Asia.]
Eala made history earlier this month with her run at Wimbledon, becoming the first Filipino to reach the fourth round of the tournament.
Her campaign included a straight-set victory over defending champion Iga Swiatek in the third round before her run ended in the round of 16.
The 21-year-old has emerged as one of Asia’s brightest tennis stars following a series of breakthrough performances on the WTA Tour and at Grand Slam events.
