Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Sunday congratulated Filipino tennis star Alexandra Eala for making history at Wimbledon after becoming the first Filipino to advance to the fourth round of the prestigious Grand Slam tournament. In a social media post, Marcos said Eala's latest victory was a moment of national pride and inspiration for Filipinos. 'There are days when an entire nation celebrates together. Today is one of those days,' the President said. 'Congratulations, Alex Eala! You have become the first Filipino ever to reach the fourth round of Wimbledon, and the whole country couldn't be prouder.'

According to Philippines News Agency, Eala, currently ranked No. 29 in the world, stunned defending Wimbledon champion and world No. 3 Iga Swiatek of Poland, 7-6(9), 6-2, in their third-round match on Saturday afternoon (London time), extending her historic run at the All England Club. Marcos recalled his earlier remarks that Eala's breakthrough performances represented only the beginning of her journey. 'I said before that this was only the beginning. Watching you today, I couldn't be more convinced. You're just getting started,' he said.

The President also thanked Eala for inspiring young Filipinos to pursue their dreams. 'The whole Filipino nation is cheering you on. Thank you for showing young Filipinos that they, too, can dream big and reach the world's biggest stage,' he said. 'Keep going, Alex. We are behind you all the way. Laban!'

The 21-year-old Eala became the first Filipino player in the Open Era to reach the second week of a Grand Slam tournament after defeating Swiatek, a six-time major champion. She saved two set points in the opening-set tiebreak before dominating the second set en route to the biggest victory of her career. Eala will next face 13th-ranked Jasmine Paolini of Italy, the 2024 Wimbledon runner-up, in the fourth round on Monday.