MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. paid tribute to the historic run made by Alex Eala in Wimbledon by hosting a homecoming reception for the tennis star in Malacañang.
Eala, accompanied by her parents Mike and Rizza, were welcomed by the chief executive and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos “I’m gushing because I am a fan… We are proud you. You cannot imagine how much pride you’ve given,” Marcos said.
“You never fail to remind anyone that you are a Filipina… the qualities you’ve shown the world are the best qualities of the Filipinos,” he added.
The 21-year-old made history for being the first Filipina tennister to reach the Round-of-16 in Wimbledon, one of the four prestigious Grand Slam tournaments.
Eala, in response, said all her on-court success was inspired by her “profound love for the country.” “I carry the flag wherever I go. Like you said, Mr. President, I do my best to represent the country on and off the court,” she said.
“It comes from a genuine place of love,” she added.
