ALEX Eala’s historic WTA breakthrough gave the country, even its divided political arena, something to celebrate together.
President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. led the government’s congratulations after Eala captured her first WTA Tour title at the Mubadala DC Open, rallying past world No. 3 Jessica Pegula, 4-6, 6-4, 6-0.
READ: Alex Eala claims first WTA Tour title by beating Pegula in DC Open final
“The Philippines now has its first WTA 500 champion,” Marcos said.
“Congratulations on yet another historic achievement. You continue to redefine what is possible for Philippine tennis and inspire countless young Filipinos to dream without limits. Kasama mo ang sambayanang Pilipino sa pagdiriwang ng panibagong tagumpay na ito.”
The celebration also spilled into the Senate impeachment court, which briefly hit pause before resuming proceedings to recognize a rare point of unity amid the political divide.
“Magkakaiba man ang ating pananaw at bagaman magkakatunggali ang magkabilang panig dito sa impeachment court, may mga bagay bagay na dapat pinagkakasunduan at pinagkakaisahan natin lalo na doon sa mga napuyat kagabi kakapanood ng TV," said presiding officer Chiz Escudero.
“At para sa akin ang isa dito ay ang tagumpay at kampeonato ng ating magaling at magiting na kababayan na si Alex Eala sa DC Open.”
Escudero added that despite opposing views and sides in the impeachment trial, Eala’s breakthrough was one triumph everyone could celebrate.
“Kaya’t sa ngalan ng Senado, ng mga senator-judges, mga kawani ng Senado, sa ngalan ng magkatunggaling mga partido ng impeachment trial, nais po naming ipabatid ang aming nagkakaisang pagbati kay Bb. Alex Eala sa kanyang panalo at kampeonato sa DC Open, tunay na ikinararangal at ipinagbubunyi ka naming lahat."
Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chairman Patrick "Pato" Gregorio, meanwhile, saw Eala’s breakthrough as both an inspiration and a challenge for Philippine sports to aim higher.
“Alex Eala’s victory at the Mubadala Open once again proves that no boundary can limit the heart of a champion. Her heart, her tenacity, her relentless drive exemplifies the best of us,” Gregorio said.
“Alex, your victory challenges us to do better, dream bigger, and work even harder for the dreams of every Filipino athlete. You strengthen our resolve to build sports systems that ensure your victory will be the victory of generations to come.”
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