MANILA -- Filipino athletes were in a celebratory mood on Monday morning after tennis star Alex Eala again made the country proud with her latest achievement.
The 20-year-old Filipina ace took down World No.15 Clara Tauson via a come-from-behind 6-3, 2-6, 7-6 (11) win in the US Open's first round, Sunday in New York (early Monday, Manila time).
READ: Alex Eala 'over the moon' after bagging historic first at US Open
Eala's triumph was just the latest of her eventful 2025, and it was also one that was a first for the Philippines at a Grand Slam tournament in the Open era.
"I'm super over the moon with what I was able to do today, especially coming back in the third," said the Quezon City native.
It was not only Eala who was ecstatic about her win as her fellow Filipino stars also shared in celebrating her latest milestone.
"[I] Witnessed history!" San Miguel Beermen star Chris Ross, who was in attendance for the match, wrote in a social media post.
"I wanted my first major tournament match to be in the final weekend in Arthur Ashe Stadium, but once I had the opportunity to watch Alex Eala's Round 1 at Grandstand, it was the best decision! She was magical out there."
"Down 5-1 in the final set and winning five straight games and then winning the tie break was legendary! I don't know how many Filipinos were in the stands but it felt like it was the whole stadium! We really do travel everywhere and support our own! Definitely was a surreal experience!! Especially getting to be there with my family!" Ross added.
Much like Ross, present and former Gilas Pilipinas Men and Women stars like Jordan Clarkson, Kevin Quiambao, Gabe Norwood, Jack Animam, and Camille Clarin also hailed Eala's victory, along with Philippine women's national football team captain Hali Long.
Aside from the stars of the hard court, "The Phenom" Alyssa Valdez also expressed her support for Eala.
In addition, national athletes and Olympic stars EJ Obiena and Sam Catantan celebrated Eala's win.
"Define laban. Boom!" Obiena said.
Eala will need all the support that the Filipino faithful will pour in as she returns to action in the US Open's second round.
Her next match, barring any changes, is scheduled on Wednesday, August 27.
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