AdeFilipino tennis fans might finally get their dream fulfilled as Alex Eala, the country’s brightest tennis star, could soon be playing on home soil in front of her countrymen. Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chairman Patrick “Pato” Gregorio revealed that the Philippines is looking to host a WTA 125 tournament in Manila by January 2026, a move that could not only inspire the next generation of athletes but also boost the nation’s growing presence in world tennis.
This development is significant for many reasons. While Eala has already been carrying the Philippine flag proudly in tournaments across Europe, Asia, and the United States, she has yet to experience the thrill of competing in a major professional event in her home country. For fans who have only followed her progress through livestreams and news updates, this could be the first chance to see her play live against top international opponents.
A WTA 125 event is considered a strong entry-level professional tournament within the Women’s Tennis Association structure. It attracts rising stars, seasoned professionals, and those aiming to climb up the rankings. For Manila, hosting such an event signals readiness to be part of the global tennis map, while giving local athletes exposure to world-class competition without having to travel abroad.
Eala, now one of the fastest-rising names in women’s tennis, would certainly be the main attraction. At just 20 years old, she has already collected impressive wins against higher-ranked players, captured multiple ITF titles, and continues to climb the rankings steadily. Having the support of a home crowd could give her not only added confidence but also the opportunity to inspire young Filipino athletes who dream of following in her footsteps.
Chairman Gregorio emphasized that the PSC is working closely with private partners and international organizers to make the Manila WTA 125 a reality. “This is not just about hosting a tournament—it’s about bringing the world of tennis closer to Filipinos and creating opportunities for our athletes,” he said.
The event could also have a strong economic and cultural impact. Sporting events of this scale attract visitors, boost tourism, and place the country in the spotlight for global sports media coverage. More importantly, it can spark a tennis renaissance in the Philippines, encouraging more grassroots development programs, sponsorships, and long-term investment in sports infrastructure.
For Filipino fans, the anticipation is already building. The thought of seeing Alex Eala step onto a Manila court, cheered on by thousands of compatriots, is more than just a sporting event—it’s a moment of national pride waiting to happen.
If all goes as planned, January 2026 could mark a historic milestone: the day Philippine tennis welcomes the world and Alex Eala shines in front of the fans who have supported her journey from the very beginning.
Musa
John Owolabi
dam