PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. hailed Alex Eala as a reminder of what Filipinos are capable of, saying the 21-year-old's rise has become a source of national pride both for her success and the way she represents the country.
Receiving the tennis sensation in a reception at Malacañang on Monday night following her historic Wimbledon campaign, Marcos, a confessed diehard fan, said Eala embodies the best qualities of the Filipino people.
READ Alex Eala rises to new career-high No. 28 in latest WTA rankings
"You have brought such pride to the Philippines, to the Filipinos, and not only because of your success, but also because of the grace with which you handle that success," the President said.
"You show the greatest, best qualities of Filipinos. So you remind us why we are a great race."
Marcos also lauded Eala's mentality, recalling how the world No. 28 was already thinking about her next tournament despite reaching another career milestone.
"You were very, very happy. But then you said, 'I'm happy, but that doesn't mean I'm satisfied. I'm already thinking about the next one.' That is the 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. You're thinking about your next tournament. That is a sign of true professionalism."
Marcos likewise recognized the sacrifices made by Eala's parents, Rizza and Michael, who paved the way for their daughter to pursue her tennis career abroad at just 14 years old, sending Alex to Rafa Nadal Academy in Mallorca, Spain.
"I can just imagine the sacrifices that you made. To see your girl off when she was 14 years old... yet you did it because of your belief in Alex. And for that, we are all extremely, extremely grateful," he said.
For her part, Eala admitted she was overwhelmed by the recognition.
"I don't usually get nervous when I have to talk, but today's an exception," she said.
'Never in my wildest dreams'
"Never in my wildest dreams did I think I'd be having dinner here in Malacañang. I feel very seen. All the hard work I've done is seen, all the hours that aren't on TV are seen, validated, appreciated."
Eala became the first Filipina to reach the fourth round of Wimbledon earlier this month before climbing to a career-high world No. 28, the highest WTA singles ranking ever achieved by a Filipina.
The Filipina tennis star added that her breakthrough belongs to the country as much as it does to her.
"I'm grateful I'm able to share my triumphs. Tagumpay ito nating lahat."
Eala also reaffirmed her commitment to carrying the Philippine flag wherever her career takes her.
"Lubos kong ipinagmamalaki ang pagiging Pilipino. I carry the flag with me wherever I go and I am a firm believer that where you come from is a big part of who you are."
"I do my best to represent the country on and off the court. It comes from a genuine place of love."
"I promise I will continue to represent the Philippines the best way that I can."
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