MANILA, Philippines — Alex Eala left the Philippines with renewed motivation after a weeklong homecoming, thanking Filipino fans for their support as she departed for the North American hardcourt season leading to the US Open.
“Maraming salamat sa pagtanggap sa akin mga kababayan! Each and every one of your stories has touched me on a profound level,” Eala wrote on Instagram Story.
During her stay, the 20-year-old tennis star met supporters at several public appearances following her historic Wimbledon campaign, where she became the first Filipino to reach the round of 16 in a Grand Slam singles tournament.
Eala said the warm reception reminded her of the responsibility and privilege of representing the Philippines on the international stage.
“I leave with a refreshed memory of what I carry when I’m out there playing tennis. And wow is it a privilege to be part of something bigger than myself. Never been prouder to represent home,” she said.
Eala now turns her focus to the North American swing, beginning with the Mubadala DC Open from July 25 to Aug. 2, where she will compete in singles and reunite with Venus Williams in the doubles tournament.
She is also scheduled to play in the WTA 1000 National Bank Open in Canada before competing in the US Open, the season’s final Grand Slam, from Aug. 24 to Sept. 13 in New York.