Alex Eala captures first WTA title in Guadalajara; President hails historic win

Alex Eala etched her name into the history books once again, capturing her maiden Women's Tennis Association (WTA) title with a stirring 1-6, 7-5, 6-3 comeback victory over Hungary's Panna Udvardy at the Guadalajara 125 Open on Sunday, Sept. 7 (Philippine time).

- KRISTEL SATUMBAGA-VILLAR and BETHEENA UNITE

President Marcos hailed Eala' victory as a win for the entire Philippines and for being the first Filipino to win the WTA singles title.

"History has been written by Alex Eala as she becomes the first Filipino to win a WTA singles title," Marcos said in a Facebook post.

"Congratulations Alex Eala! Ang iyong tagumpay ay tagumpay ng buong bansa (Your victory is a win for the entire country)," he added.

With Eala's win, the President made a commitment to "do everything" in supporting more Filipino tennis players who would follow Eala's footsteps.

"Gagawin natin ang lahat upang mas marami pang atletang Pilipino ang susunod sa yapak na ito at maipakita sa mundo ang galing at puso ng Pilipino (We will do everything to have more Filipino athletes follow this path and showcase to the world the skill and heart of the Filipino people)," Marcos said.

Poise under pressure