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Manila Bulletin devider Sports devider From Eala-Vekic to 'Queen Camila,' tennis reaches new heights after PH Open staging

From Eala-Vekic to 'Queen Camila,' tennis reaches new heights after PH Open staging

Published Feb 2, 2026 02:38 pm

At A Glance

  • Adding to the tennis mania were the charm and grit of finalists Croatian Donna Vekic and Colombian Camila Osorio, who was crowned as the first-ever PH Open queen, as two foreign bets captivated the hearts of Filipino fans who watched their games live or streamed online.
Colombian Camila Osorio becomes the first-ever champion of WTA 125 Philippine Women's Open singles event. (PWO)
Colombian Camila Osorio becomes the first-ever champion of WTA 125 Philippine Women's Open singles event. (PWO)
Despite being denied of cheering a local champion in the inaugural WTA 125 Philippine Women's Open, the staging surely opened the doors for tennis aspirants in the country.
Adding to the tennis mania were the charm and grit of finalists Croatian Donna Vekic and Colombian Camila Osorio, who was crowned as the first-ever PH Open queen, as two foreign bets captivated the hearts of Filipino fans who watched their games live or streamed online.
The maiden WTA-sanctioned tournament received rave reviews from fans, players, and top officials, despite the renovations being completed in just 45 days.
“Well, to tell you the truth, it's an excellent turnout. As you can see, we have a very good field for players. But also it's a great opportunity for WTA players to experience [playing] in this region,” said WTA supervisor Cristina Romero.
“In Asia Pacific, we are lacking in tournaments and I think it's a great opportunity also to develop tennis in the region. So it's a great turnout,” she added. “Well, I have to say that I have done several 125s and I have to say this has a very, very high standard for it.”
A packed crowd filled the Rizal Memorial Tennis Center, breathing new life into the historic sports complex that once hosted several international competitions, including the 1989 exhibition match between tennis icons in Swedish Björn Borg and American John McEnroe at the nearby Ninoy Aquino Stadium.
Mike Eala, father of Alex who is now overseas for the WTA 500 Abu Dhabi Open in the UAE, also tipped his hat to the organizers – led by Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) and Philippine Tennis Association (Philta) – who spearheaded the event.
"What a winner event. You have gifted the nation. Continue to give the nation with these wonderful sporting events. The inspiration it ignites is immeasurable. Congratulations," said Mike.
Osorio and Vekic had also heaped their praises on the officials after seeing the former hoist the first PH Open champion’s trophy. Both netters also earned a good following and stressed their intentions to return to the country.
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