MANILA — No Filipino athlete has had a warmer return home this year than tennis sensation Alexandra Ela.
A day after returning to the Philippines after her historic Wimbledon run, she received a hero’s welcome at Manila’s Malacañang Palace and received the Presidential Citation from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Monday.
The award recognizes Ila’s historic run at Wimbledon, where she became the first Filipino to reach the fourth round of a Grand Slam singles event.
“I feel like I’m getting a lot of attention,” Ira said at the ceremony.
“When I hear those words from you, it makes me feel like everything I’ve ever done is seen. Every moment I don’t see on TV is seen, validated, and appreciated.”
The 21-year-old admitted she was unusually nervous as she addressed the gathering of government officials inside the presidential palace.
“I have to confess, I don’t usually get nervous when I have to speak,” she said.
“But today is an exception. I’m pretty nervous.
“I am so grateful to be able to share my victories with the nation, especially my recent run at Wimbledon. As we say, this is our victory. Words cannot express how happy I am to see how my progress has been received by the Filipino people.”
Ila arrived in Manila on Sunday and was welcomed by a delegation led by Philippine Sports Commission Chairman Patrick “Pato” Gregorio and Philippine Olympic Committee Chairman Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino.
Her return came a week after her emotional battle at Wimbledon, where she lost in three sets to Italy’s Jasmine Paolini in the fourth round, 6-4, 4-6, 6-3.
The campaign was highlighted by a stunning third-round upset of defending champion and world No. 3 Iga Swiatek, with Ila winning 7-6 (9), 6-2.
It was another breakout year for him with memorable performances at the 2025 Miami Open and 2025 US Open.
After Wimbledon, Ila rose to a career-high No. 28 in the world in the WTA rankings.
Her success sparked national support, with government agencies and private organizations holding public viewing parties across the United States for her fourth-round match against Paolini.
”I’m very proud to be Filipino” Ira said in Malacañang.
(I’m very proud to be Filipino.)
“I carry this flag with me wherever I go, and I strongly believe that where you come from is a big part of who you are.”
President Marcos said he was excited to finally meet the country’s newest sports icon.
During the ceremony, Eala presented the family with an autographed tennis ball and cap.
“I’m excited because I’m a fan. I’m your true fan,” President Marcos said. “I hope I get a chance to watch you someday, even if it’s not a Grand Slam, even if it’s a tournament.”
Meanwhile, Ila assured President Marcos that wherever his career takes him, he will continue to represent the Philippines with pride.
“As you say, Mr. President, I will do everything in my power to represent the best of our country on and off the court,” she said.
“Because I’m really proud and it comes from genuine love.”
