Senator Panfilo “Ping” Lacson praised Filipina tennis sensation Alex Eala as the country’s “newest and youngest national hero” following her hard-fought victory over Caty McNally at the Canadian Open.
Eala battled through a right-foot injury sustained during her Round of 32 match in Toronto to push past McNally and secure a spot in the Round of 16. The victory extended her impressive winning streak, coming hot on the heels of her historic triumph at the Mubadala DC Open.
There, she defeated American Jessica Pegula in a rain-delayed final to become the first Filipino ever to capture a WTA Tour singles title.
Celebrating her continued success, Senator Lacson joined fans across the nation in recognizing Eala’s achievements on social media.
“Make way for our newest and youngest national hero – Alex Eala!” Lacson posted.
The lawmaker previously commended Eala for bringing immense pride to the Philippines, lightheartedly admitting that he stayed up late to catch her groundbreaking match.
”Thank you Alex Eala for bringing honor and pride to our country, kahit pinuyat mo kaming mga Pinoy dito sa Pilipinas kagabi,” Lacson joked. “Nakalimutan ko, may impeachment trial pala kami this morning.”