ALEX Eala competing in a WTA tournament at home?
That could be possible as the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) and the Philippine Tennis Association (Philta) are in talks to bring a WTA-level tournament to the country for the very first time.
The plan to host a WTA 125 Philippine Women’s Open ideally from January 26 to February 1, 2026 was hatched in a meeting between PSC chairman Patrick Gregorio and Philta secretary-general and Navotas mayor John Rey Tiangco last September 29.
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Also discussed was a plan to open the courts of the Rizal Memorial Tennis Center to the public.
“Our partnership with the Philippine Sports Commission paves the way for a new chapter in Philippine tennis,” said Tiangco in a statement.
The WTA 125 is the second highest level of women’s tennis behind the WTA Tour, which also has its 1000, 500, and 250 level tournaments.
Eala, 20, could have a chance at competing in front of Filipino fans since the world No. 58 netter captured his first WTA title in the Guadalajara 125 held during the first week of September.
WTA 125 tournaments usually have two-round qualifiers and 32-woman fields, with total prize money at US$125,000 and the winner getting US$8,400.
“From pursuing the hosting of the WTA 125 Philippine Women’s Open and ITF J30 to exploring the opening of Rizal Memorial courts to the public and building the Philippine Tennis Center in New Clark City, we are bringing world-class opportunities closer to home. Tennis transforms lives, and with PSC’s support, we are determined to help Filipinos rise and shine on the world stage,” said Tiangco.
Gregorio said a WTA 125 tournament to be played in the country will spur the development of Philippine tennis.
“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. By opening access and investing in world-class events, we are giving Filipinos the same chance to dream big and achieve greatness,” said Gregorio.
Aside from the talks, PHILTA has also informed the PSC that it is hosting the ITF J30 Tournament later in the year featuring juniors players aged 13 to 18.
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