Alexandra Eala of the Philippines calls for a towel against Iga Swiatek of Poland during their match on Day 9 of the Miami Open at Hard Rock Stadium on March 26, 2025 in Miami Gardens, Florida. Al Bello, Getty Images/AFP 

MANILA -- President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Saturday called Alex Eala "an inspiration to everyone" after the Filipina tennis player made it all the way to the semifinals of the 2025 Miami Open.

Eala became the first Filipino to reach that far in a WTA1000 tournament, and made headlines in her sport after a star-making week wherein she defeated a trio of Grand Slam champions, including world No. 2 Iga Swiatek.

Her run ended on Friday morning (Manila time) against world No. 4 Jessica Pegula of the United States, but not before she gave the veteran a scare and forced her into a deciding third set.

READ: Dream run ends for Alex Eala with loss to Pegula in Miami Open semis

"We would like to congratulate our tennis phenomenon,  Alex Eala, on her historic and amazing run in the 2025 Miami Open," Marcos Jr. said in a Facebook post. 

"Truly, what you did showed the whole world what a Filipino athlete is all about – determined, steadfast and never the one to back away from any challenges," he added. 

The 19-year-old Eala, who entered the tournament ranked 140th in the world, is "an inspiration to everyone, especially to ordinary Filipinos who face life’s daily challenges with the same grit and determination," the president said. 

Marcos Jr. thanked Eala for her sacrifices and hard work, and expressed his confidence that "the elusive championship title is within reach" for the athlete.

Several of Eala's fellow athletes and even celebrities earlier hailed her achievement, with former senator and iconic boxer Manny Pacquiao saying "(t)he whole nation is proud" of her.

READ: Athletes, personalities shower Alex Eala with praises after historic run in Miami

Eala, who's been an ambassador of telecommunications company Globe since she was eight years old, showed the heart of the Filipino, said Globe President and CEO Ernest Cu.

"Alex has once again demonstrated the heart and fighting spirit of the Filipino. Her Miami Open journey is a testament to her relentless drive and unwavering dedication to the sport," Cu said. "We are incredibly proud of her achievements and will continue to support her as she inspires young athletes across the country."

Malacanang earlier congratulated Eala after her stunning upset of Swiatek in the quarterfinals.

WATCH Eala's match against Pegula here: