Manila: House of Representatives Speaker Faustino Dy III and Philippine Sports Commission Chair Patrick Gregorio were among the first to congratulate Filipino tennis star Alex Eala for capturing her first WTA (Women's Tennis Association) Tour title, calling the achievement a milestone not only for Philippine tennis but for the entire nation. Eala beat world No. 3 and tournament top seed Jessica Pegula of the US, 4-6, 6-4, 6-0, in the Mubadala DC Open final early Tuesday (PH time) at William H.G. FitzGerald Tennis Center in Washington, D.C.

According to Philippines News Agency, in a social media post, Dy said her historic victory is the product of years of hard work and sacrifice that have inspired pride and joy among millions of Filipinos. 'Ang sarap ng pakiramdam na makita kang manalo, Alex (It feels great to see you win, Alex),' the Speaker said. 'Years of sweat and sacrifice resulted in history -- the first Filipina to win a WTA title. Nakakatuwang isipin na ang pinaghirapan ng isang Pilipina ay nakapagpasaya sa milyun-milyong Pilipino (It's so good to think that the sacrifices of a single Filipina bring joy to millions of Filipinos).' Dy said Eala's success reflects the rewards of perseverance, discipline, and commitment to excellence, noting that her journey continues to inspire young Filipinos to pursue their dreams regardless of the challenges they face.

Gregorio said Eala's victory proved that no boundary can limit the heart of a champion. "Her heart, her tenacity, her relentless drive exemplifies the best of us," Gregorio said in a statement. "Alex, your victory challenges us to do better, dream bigger, and work even harder for the dreams of every Filipino athlete. You strengthen our resolve to build sports systems that ensure your victory will be the victory of generations to come." Gregorio also paid tribute to Eala's family and team "for showing young athletes that no stage is too big for the Filipino."

The victory lifted the 21-year-old to a career-high world No. 20 in the world rankings.