Speaker Dy congratulates Alex Eala on historic first WTA title

House Speaker Faustino “Bojie” G. Dy III on Tuesday congratulated Filipino tennis star Alex Eala for capturing her first WTA Tour title, saying her historic victory is the product of years of hard work and sacrifice that have inspired pride and joy among millions of Filipinos.

In a social media post, Dy lauded Eala for becoming the first Filipina to win a WTA Tour singles title, calling the achievement a milestone not only for Philippine tennis but for the entire nation.

“Ang sarap ng pakiramdam na makita kang manalo, Alex,” said the Speaker.

“Years of sweat and sacrifice resulted in history—the first Filipina to win a WTA title. Nakakatuwang isipin na ang pinaghirapan ng isang Pilipina ay nakapagpasaya sa milyun-milyong Pilipino.”

The Speaker said Eala’s success reflects the rewards of perseverance, discipline, and commitment to excellence, noting that her journey continues to inspire young Filipinos to pursue their dreams regardless of the challenges they face.

“Congratulations on your first WTA title. You make every Filipino proud every time you step on the court. Maraming salamat,” he said.

Eala completed a remarkable championship run at the Mubadala Citi DC Open in Washington, where she defeated reigning Olympic champion Qinwen Zheng, defending champion Leylah Fernandez, second seed Elina Svitolina, and four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka on the way to the finals.

In the championship, Eala rallied past World No. 3 and top seed Jessica Pegula, 4-6, 6-4, 6-0, in the final to capture her maiden WTA Tour singles title. The victory is expected to lift the 21-year-old Filipina to a career-high World No. 20 in the WTA rankings. (RM)