MANILA — As Alex Eala toppled another tennis giant, legends of the sport hailed the Filipina ace following her historic third-round victory at Wimbledon.
Tennis royalty Billie Jean King, a winner of 39 Grand Slam titles, raved about the 21-year-old, whom she spent some time with after Eala dethroned Iga Swiatek with a 7-6 (11-9), 6-2 victory in the third round on Saturday.
"Keep going for it, Alex!" wrote the former World No. 1 as she shared moments with Eala, who she called "such an inspiration for kids in the Philippines and all over the world."
Also offering her flowers was Maria Sharapova, the Russian icon whom Eala has long considered her idol.
"A star!" commented the winner of five Grand Slam singles titles.
Meanwhile, Filipino sports stars Manny Pacquiao and EJ Obiena also praised Eala.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. also congratulated Eala, celebrating her victory during a press briefing held as part of his official state visit to Canada.
"Before I make my statement, napanood niyo ba si Alex Eala? She is becoming a true inspiration, especially for younger people, younger Filipinos," Marcos said.
"Biruin niyo, meron na tayong player, babae pa, na nanalo ng third round sa Wimbledon. Tennis does not operate at a higher level than Wimbledon," he added.
Eala continues her historic Wimbledon campaign on Monday against Jasmine Paolini in the Round of 16.