BEFORE she won the biggest title of her career, Alex Eala already considered herself a winner.
On the eve of the Mubadala DC Open final, the Filipina shared that she received heartfelt messages reminding her that simply standing on the biggest stage of her young career, surrounded by the unwavering support of Filipinos around the world, was already a victory in itself.
READ: Alex Eala claims first tour title after ruling Mubadala DC Open
"I got a sweet message last night. Standing here in the middle of all this love, my first chance at a title, knowing it won't be my last. Whatever happens in this match, it will already be a win for me," the 21-year-old said before the big DC crowd on Monday afternoon after she won three sets against Jessica Pegula for her maiden title.
As it turned out, Eala didn't have to choose between feeling like a winner and becoming one.
Eala acknowledged the supporters who showed up despite the circumstances like the weather, the extended schedule, and the ungodly hour in Manila.
READ: Eala fans make presence felt at unique DC Open Monday final
"The Filipino community here in DC, and back home, and wherever you are in the world, I feel all the love. Maraming salamat, kababayan," she added.
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