EDITORIAL — Alex does us proud again

With so many issues worrying, dividing, and polarizing Filipinos these days --like the recent rash of violent incidents in schools, the investigation into the multi-billion flood-control scams, not to mention the ongoing impeachment trial of the vice president-- it’s nice to have something that can unite us in pride for a change.

And right now that thing is in the field of sports, where Alex Eala, now arguably the Philippines’ foremost tennis ace, has made another achievement in Wimbledon.

Last year, Eala hogged the headlines after making the semifinals in the Miami Open and the Wimbledon main draw, then winning her first Women's Tennis Association last September after beating Hungarian Panna Udvardy in the Guadalajara 125 Open final in Zapopan, Mexico.

Now back in Wimbledon, she defeated defending champion, Iga Swiatek of Poland on Centre Court, but sadly bowed out to Italy's Jasmine Paolini not long after.

To salute her achievement, the tournament's official account posted a message in Tagalog: "Sino bang hindi mabibighani sa performance na 'yun ni Alex?... Kahanga-hanga si Alex!"

This may be the end of one road for her. But let’s not forget that at just 21 years old her future is still ahead of her.

Like we said in a previous editorial also about Eala, in times like these it’s nice to have news that can lift our spirits and make us proud to be Filipinos again.

It’s easy for us to forget that we have athletes that we can be proud of.

The field of sports is actually a good place to look for when it comes to idols, as long as those athletes become the embodiment of perseverance, dedication, and fair play.

There's always great satisfaction in watching someone achieve greatness through hard work and sacrifice, as opposed to someone being just given what they want because of their station in life.

Of course, her story won’t be just her own. It’s likely that right now she is inspiring some young athletes to follow her into the field of tennis, athletes who might have the potential to make their own names someday.