Eala’s historic Wimbledon run a source of national pride – Legarda

MANILA, Philippines — Sen. Loren Legarda has honored Filipina tennis star Alexandra “Alex” Maniego Eala for her historic run to the fourth round of the 2026 Wimbledon Championships, the highest achievement yet by a Filipino in the Open Era and a moment of pride for the nation.

Legarda, a four-term senator, filed Proposed Senate Resolution No. 504, which recounts Eala’s campaign:

a commanding 6-1, 6-2 opening win over Mexico’s Renata Zarazúa

a resilient comeback against Australia’s Maya Joint

a landmark third-round upset of reigning champion Iga Świątek, the World No. 3, 7-6(9), 6-2

The last win carried her into the Round of 16, where she fell in a spirited three-set battle to Italy’s Jasmine Paolini, earning a standing ovation from tennis legends Billie Jean King and Roger Federer.

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“This resolution is a recognition of Alex Eala’s discipline, humility, and indomitable spirit,” Legarda said.

“She has carried the Philippine flag onto the world’s most prestigious tennis court and shown that Filipinos can defeat the very best,” she added.

The resolution also cites Eala’s trail of firsts:

the first Filipino to win a junior Grand Slam singles title, at the 2022 US Open

the first Filipino in the Open Era to break into the WTA Top 100 and the Top 30

the first Filipino to beat Top-10 opponents

the first Filipino to reach a WTA Tour final

the first Filipino to win a Grand Slam main-draw singles match

She rose to a career-high World No. 28 on July 4, 2026, the highest ranking ever attained by a Filipino in WTA history.

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In December 2025, she captured the women’s singles gold medal at the 33rd Southeast Asian Games, ending a 26-year drought for the Philippines.

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“Alex’s Wimbledon breakthrough affirms her stature as the finest tennis player the Philippines has ever produced,” Legarda said.

“Her journey inspires a new generation of Filipino athletes and brings immense pride and honor to our nation,” she added.

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Through P.S. Resolution No. 504, Legarda placed Eala’s Wimbledon campaign among the defining achievements in Philippine sports history. /atm