President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. welcomed tennis prodigy Alex Eala to Malacañang Palace on Monday, July 13, to honor her historic achievements at Wimbledon.
During the homecoming reception, the President commended the young athlete not only for her athletic achievements but also for her admirable demeanor while competing internationally.
”You have brought such pride to the Philippines, to the Filipinos, and not only because of your success, but also because the grace with which you handle that success,” Marcos told the tennis star. “Because the way you play and the way you comport yourself makes us proud because you show the greatest, best qualities of Filipinos. So you remind us why we are a great race.”
An avid fan of the sport, President Marcos expressed admiration for Eala’s composure under pressure. He specifically recalled a memorable line she uttered during her Wimbledon campaign: “Because I’m emotional does not mean I’m satisfied.”
Reflecting on her mindset, Marcos described it as the mark of a true competitor.
”That is impressive. That is the sign of a true fighter, a true champion,” Marcos remarked. “The way that you can keep your concentration, the way that you can keep your commitment. And that, I think, that is one of the qualities that you have. That is why you have been so successful.”
He also marveled at her unwavering focus during grueling rallies.
”You never lost your cool. You just kept going. You just kept going. You just kept going. And you just kept going. And that’s what will make you successful for very, very many years. You’ve only started. You will keep going.”
During the meeting, the Chief Executive pledged the full backing of the state, assuring Eala that the government stands ready to provide any resources she needs for her career.
”If there’s anything that we can do to help you, even for – you just say so, you have it,” he promised.
Marcos also recognized her parents, Mike and Rizza Eala, thanking them for their early sacrifices, including sending her to Spain’s Rafa Nadal Academy at the age of 13.
”[Y]ou did it because of your belief in Alex. And for that, we are all extremely, extremely grateful,” the President said.
As Eala gets ready for local public appearances—including an upcoming fan meet at the Glorietta Activity Center on July 15—Marcos reminded the 21-year-old that she carries the spirit of her home country.
”[W]e’re all behind you. That the entire Filipino nation is behind you. The entire Filipino nation has come to love you because of your sweetness and grace,” Marcos said. “We are all, 110 million of us, we are all here behind you, willing you on to greater success.”