Alexandra Eala has been a sensation on the WTA Tour so far this season.
The Filipina has amassed the one of the most dedicated fanbases on the planet, despite being ranked outside the world’s top 30 players.
Recently, Eala competed at the Dubai Tennis Championships, where she reached the quarter-finals following victories against Hailey Baptiste, Jasmine Paolini and Sorana Cirstea.
Following her most recent performance in the United Arab Emirates, Manny Pacquiao has offered his support for Eala and her achievements.
Manny Pacquiao’s advice for Alex Eala
“When I watched her [Eala] playing… I’m so proud of her,” Pacquiao told Filipino television broadcaster ABS-CSN.
“Carrying the flag of the Philippines, and then when I look at her, it seems like… oh my, I’m so proud of her because of course she’s a Filipino. We need more of that.
“So, keep it up. Keep it up. Work hard. That I can say.
“Winston Churchill’s quote: ‘you will never reach your destination if you stop and throw stones at every dog that barks.’ Don’t pay attention to all the people who have, although we cannot place even one.
“So, just focus on our goal, to give honour to our country. And then, there would be more Filipinos who would give honour to our country.”
Pacquiao, a professional boxer and former member of the Philippine Senate, is widely regarded as one of the greatest professional boxers of all time.
He is the only eight-division world champion in boxing history.
Manny Pacquiao is set for Floyd Mayweather rematch
On Tuesday, Manny Pacquiao’s rematch against Floyd Mayweather was confirmed.
Pacquiao, 47, and Mayweather, 48, will contest the professional match on September 19 at Sphere in Las Vegas.
Pacquiao retired from the sport in 2021, choosing to focus on his political career in the Philippines. However, he returned to boxing last year, drawing with WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios.
Mayweather has not fought a professional contest since beating mixed martial arts fighter Conor McGregor in 2017.
Pacquiao and Mayweather first fought in 2015, with Mayweather emerging the winner by unanimous decision.
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