MANILA — No Filipino athlete has had a hotter return residence this 12 months than tennis sensation Alexandra Ela.
A day after returning to the Philippines after her historic Wimbledon run, she acquired a hero’s welcome at Manila’s Malacañang Palace and acquired the Presidential Quotation from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Monday.
The award acknowledges Ila’s historic run at Wimbledon, the place she grew to become the primary Filipino to achieve the fourth spherical of a Grand Slam singles occasion.
“I really feel like I am getting loads of consideration,” Ira mentioned on the ceremony.
“After I hear these phrases from you, it makes me really feel like every part I’ve ever executed is seen. Each second I do not see on TV is seen, validated, and appreciated.”
The 21-year-old admitted she was unusually nervous as she addressed the gathering of presidency officers contained in the presidential palace.
“I’ve to admit, I do not normally get nervous when I’ve to talk,” she mentioned.
“However at the moment is an exception. I’m fairly nervous.
“I’m so grateful to have the ability to share my victories with the nation, particularly my current run at Wimbledon. As we are saying, that is our victory. Phrases can’t categorical how comfortable I’m to see how my progress has been acquired by the Filipino folks.”
Ila arrived in Manila on Sunday and was welcomed by a delegation led by Philippine Sports activities Fee Chairman Patrick “Pato” Gregorio and Philippine Olympic Committee Chairman Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino.
Her return got here per week after her emotional battle at Wimbledon, the place she misplaced in three units to Italy’s Jasmine Paolini within the fourth spherical, 6-4, 4-6, 6-3.
The marketing campaign was highlighted by a shocking third-round upset of defending champion and world No. 3 Iga Swiatek, with Ila profitable 7-6 (9), 6-2.
It was one other breakout 12 months for him with memorable performances on the 2025 Miami Open and 2025 US Open.
After Wimbledon, Ila rose to a career-high No. 28 on the planet within the WTA rankings.
Her success sparked nationwide assist, with authorities businesses and personal organizations holding public viewing events throughout america for her fourth-round match in opposition to Paolini.
”I am very proud to be Filipino” Ira mentioned in Malacañang.
(I am very proud to be Filipino.)
“I carry this flag with me wherever I’m going, and I strongly consider that the place you come from is a giant a part of who you’re.”
President Marcos mentioned he was excited to lastly meet the nation’s latest sports activities icon.
In the course of the ceremony, Eala offered the household with an autographed tennis ball and cap.
“I am excited as a result of I am a fan. I am your true fan,” President Marcos mentioned. “I hope I get an opportunity to observe you sometime, even when it’s not a Grand Slam, even when it’s a event.”
In the meantime, Ila assured President Marcos that wherever his profession takes him, he’ll proceed to symbolize the Philippines with pleasure.
“As you say, Mr. President, I’ll do every part in my energy to symbolize the perfect of our nation on and off the courtroom,” she mentioned.
“As a result of I am actually proud and it comes from real love.”
