THE Filipina tennis sensation Alex Eala’s achievements and histories she broke are still being recognized, as she was honored by the Philippine Ambassador to Spain over the weekend.
Despite her recent loss to World No. 2 Iga Swiatek in their rematch, which saw her quit the 2025 Madrid Open early in the Round of 64, the 19-year-old Eala was awarded the Premios Tanglaw by Philippe Lhuillier.
According to the ambassador, in addition to Eala, Isabel Preysler, the late Senator Ed Angara, and 12 other people were honored during last year’s ceremonies.
“I gave her the trophy which she was not able to attend our embassy celebrations last year called Premios Tanglaw,” said Lhuillier, who was joined by his wife Edna Lhuillier during the momentous handover of the award.
A Bright Light
The Premios Tanglaw is an award given by the Philippine Embassy to Filipinos and Spaniards who have made important contributions to strengthening the bonds between the Philippines and Spain.
“A distinguished award presented by the Philippine Embassy in Spain to honor individuals and institutions that have made significant contributions to fostering solidarity and cooperation between the Philippines and Spain,” the Embassy’s post said.
“Named after the Filipino word “tanglaw,” meaning “guiding light,” the award celebrates those who serve as luminaries of unity and progress.”
“Inspired by Juan Luna’s iconic painting, it symbolizes the illumination of the path toward a brighter future, with both nations equally contributing to their shared aspirations,” the post went on to explain.
The timing is particularly ideal, as Eala recently completed her tournament in Madrid. In addition, she has lived in Mallorca, Spain, since she was 13, where she studied and trained at the Rafa Nadal Academy.
Always Grateful
After receiving the award from Lhuiller, the WTA world number 72 Pinay thanked all of the Filipinos who cheered and supported her throughout her debut Madrid Open appearance.
“Naramdaman ko talaga ‘yung support niyo, ‘yung pagmamahal ninyo sa akin, at sana magkita tayo ulit soon,” Eala said in a video posted on the Facebook account of the Philippine Embassy.
Furthermore, Eala shared her thoughts a few days ago, following her brief but unforgettable appearance in the WTA 1000 clay event. For her, the triumph may not have gone her way, but it was still an unforgettable event.
“Wow-what an experience playing in this year’s @mutuamadridopen, especially on Pista Manolo Santana. It’s such a privilege to bring out my competitive side and perform at a high level on these iconic courts,” she said.
“Today’s match was a battle, and I’m counting on it not being the last. Sometime ago, my dad told me, “If you want to be a lion, you have to live in the den.” I’ve earned my place in the den-and I like to think I’m a lion in the making,” she added.
Meanwhile, Eala will skip the Catalonia Open in Spain, despite being seeded sixth in the WTA 125 event. According to reports, she was initially part of the tournament but chose not to compete for unknown reasons.
