MANILA, Philippines – Alex Eala scored the biggest victory of her career after stunning world No. 3 and defending Wimbledon champion Iga Swiatek, 7-6 (11-9), 6-2, to reach the fourth round of Wimbledon. She celebrated the milestone with an emotional tribute to her humble beginnings.
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| Photo courtesy: Instagram/Alex Eala |
The 21-year-old became the first Filipino player to advance to the Round of 16 of any Grand Slam singles tournament. The victory also marked her seventh career win over a Top 10 opponent.
Her historic run also propelled Eala to a new career-high live ranking of No. 28 in the world, according to the WTA live rankings on Sunday. She previously reached a career-best No. 29 and now has a chance to break into the Top 25 with another victory.
During her post-match interview, Eala said the historic achievement meant far more than just another victory because of the sacrifices she made growing up in the Philippines.
“Maybe for someone like Iga, or Serena or Venus Williams, who has won so many Slams, this achievement may seem small, but for someone who grew up in the Philippines, who trained with her brother and grandfather after school in worn-out shoes and socks, this is everything,” she said.
Her heartfelt remarks resonated with fans around the world, many of whom praised her humility and the inspiring journey behind her success.
Eala also shared an emotional message on social media, dedicating the victory to her younger self and aspiring athletes. “For the girls with ruffled socks, light up shoes and chubby cheeks💕,” she wrote.
Wimbledon also shared childhood photos of Eala on Instagram, highlighting her early training days in the Philippines. The images underscored the years of hard work and sacrifice behind her journey from local courts to Centre Court.
Eala's historic run continues on Monday (Philippine time), when she faces Italy's Jasmine Paolini for a place in her first-ever Grand Slam quarterfinal.
Meanwhile, the Philippine Tennis Association invited fans to watch Eala's Wimbledon Round of 16 match live and for free at the Philsports Arena in Pasig City on July 6. Admission will be on a first-come, first-served basis as organizers encouraged supporters to fill the venue and cheer for the Filipina tennis star.
— The Summit Express
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