Marcos to history-maker Alex Eala: 'We have found in you a champion'

Alex Eala's historic rise on the global tennis stage was recognized on Monday as President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. honored the 21-year-old star at Malacañang.

Marcos, who said he is a big fan of Eala, honored the young tennis star for her remarkable campaign in what is widely regarded as the sport's most prestigious tournament—Wimbledon.

"I think, I suppose it doesn't need repeating, but I'll repeat it anyway. You have brought such pride to the Philippines, to the Filipinos, and not only because of your success but also because the grace with which you handle that success," Marcos said in his speech.

"There's no higher level of professional tennis than Wimbledon."

Beyond her recent accomplishments, Marcos commended Eala not only for her success on the court but also for the grace and humility she has shown on the international stage, noting how proudly she tells the world she is from the Philippines.

After stunning then World No. 3 Iga Świątek in the Round of 32—a victory that dethroned the defending champion Polish star at Wimbledon—Eala took a moment in her post-match interview to reflect on growing up in the Philippines and how her roots shaped her journey to tennis success.

In a press conference following that win, Eala also revealed that Filipino sporting greats Manny Pacquiao and Hidilyn Diaz inspired her growing up, saying she hopes to do the same for the next generation of Filipinos.

"And the other thing that I have to mention is that you never fail to remind everyone that you are a Filipina. You never fail to do that. And that's very touching for all of us that you don't forget the rest of us," Marcos added.

"You always seem to give the impression that it is because you are a Filipina that you are doing so well and we sincerely agree with you."

While Eala did not capture the Wimbledon crown, Marcos said she is a champion in the eyes of Filipinos.

"We have found in you a champion. A champion who has made the Philippines proud, who has reminded Filipinos what a great race Filipinos are because we produce someone like you," Marcos said.

"And that the qualities that you show the world are the best qualities of Filipinos. And for that, as president, I guess, that's what really strikes me."

Eala, who rose to career-high world No. 28 earlier today, is now looking to carry her grass-court momentum back to the hard surface as she continues her WTA Tour run.

Eala is expected to compete at the WTA500 Mubadala DC Open, where she will once again face some of the best tennis players, including Leylah Fernandez, Iva Jovic, Madison Keys, and Jasmine Paolini.

She is also set to compete at the WTA1000 National Bank Open before she competes again at the US Open, the final Grand Slam of the year.

—Bea Micaller/JMB, GMA News