BEING recognized as the 2025 Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA) Athlete of the Year reflects the growth of tennis in the Philippines.
Filipino tennis ace Alex Eala shared that in a recorded video after being recognized as co-Athletes of the Year with gymnast Carlos Yulo at the PSA Awards Night at the Diamond Hotel Manila Monday.
Eala couldn’t attend the event as she’s been competing at the Dubai Tennis Championships at the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) tour.
Alex Eala XINHUA PHOTO
“This award means so much to me because it serves as a reflection of how far tennis has really come in our country,” said Eala.
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“So thank you very much for this recognition and congrats to all of the awardees tonight.”
Eala’s breakout season at the WTA tour paired with a gold medal at the 33rd Southeast Asian Games last year gave her the compelling case for the top athlete award given by the PSA.
Eala set her breakout year in motion in a historic campaign at the Miami Open, where she reached the semifinals as a wildcard entry.
Alex Eala XINHUA PHOTO
Ranked 140th at that time, Eala cracked the top 100 by beating former French Open champion Jelena Ostapenko in the second round, Australian Open titlist and no. 5 Madison Keys in the third round, and stunning five-time grand slam champ and world no. 2 Iga Swiatek in the quarterfinals.
The improbable run put the Philippines on tennis map and her to 75th place in the rankings which she eventually upgraded to a career-best 40th just last week.
The 20-year-old Eala said she’s honored to be recognized as Athletes of the Year with the 25-year-old Yulo.
“Good evening everyone. I truly regret not being there tonight. However, I’m so honored to be named the PSA Athlete of the Year alongside Carlos Yulo,” said Eala.
“First of all, congratulations, Carlos. It is a great honor to share this award with you at this award ceremony. I would also like to thank my family, my team, and all my fellow Filipinos for their tireless support.”
