'You won hearts': Pacquiao hails Eala for dream run in Miami Open
MANILA, Philippines -- From one Filipino icon to another.
Filipino boxing champion Manny Pacquiao lauded tennis sensation Alex Eala for her valiant effort in the 2025 Miami Open, saying she “won the hearts of the world.”
Eala bowed out of the competition in the semifinals after a hard-fought three-setter against World No. 4 Jessica Pegula, 6(3)-7, 7-5, 3-6 Friday morning (Manila time).
Through the tournament, the 19-year-old, who came in as the World No. 140 tennister, scored massive upsets over World No. 73 Katie Volynets, World No. 25 Jelena Ostapenko, World No. 5 Madison Keys and World No. 2 Iga Swiatek.
Pacquiao, in an Instagram story, congratulated Eala for her majestic run.
“You may not have made the finals, but you won the hearts of the world. The whole nation is proud,” he posted on his story.
“This is just the beginning. Keep fighting and inspiring. You've shown the heart of a true champion. Laban lang! The future is bright for you,” he added. “Proud na proud kami sa'yo!”
The Filipina’s run in the Miami Open put the whole world on notice, as she scored upset after upset with convincing wins.
She was only able to drop a set in the tourney against Pegula, as she swept through her opponents despite overwhelming odds.
Pegula, after the match, also acknowledged Eala’s talent and skill.
“She’s really good, a really good tennis player. Goes for her shots, takes the ball early, rips. Being a lefty’s always tricky and she competes really well,” Pegula said.
“I mean, obviously she’s beaten a lot of top players this week. I don’t really think she needs me to tell her that she’s a great player, that we’re not gonna see enough of her, but we definitely are. She proved that tonight. That was really tough,” she added.
Meanwhile, outgoing 1Pacman Party-list Rep. Mikee Romero, who took time from his polo training in the US to watch the match live, likewise gave Eala props.
“Nakakaproud ka Alex,” said Romero.
Eala entered the tourney ranked 140th. Following this, she is expected to crack the top 100, as she is currently ranked 75th in the live rankings.