Davao City's pride, Shaira Hope Rivera, is set to represent the Philippines once more as she competes in her fourth consecutive Southeast Asian (SEA) Games in Bangkok, Thailand. The 26-year-old tennis player, a bronze medalist from the 2022 Hanoi Games, aims to add another accolade to her growing collection while wearing the national colors.
From Humble Beginnings to National Team Stalwart
Rivera's tennis journey began at the age of 10 at Monkayo Central Elementary School. Her natural talent was evident early on when she clinched the Palarong Pambansa doubles crown in 2012. A significant turn in her life came after Typhoon Pablo devastated her hometown, prompting a move to Davao City. Under the guidance of coach Marivic Loquinario at Sta. Ana National High School, she dominated regional competitions and earned national medals.
Her development continued through rigorous training at the Philippine Tennis Academy and De La Salle Santiago Zobel. She later played varsity tennis for Ateneo de Manila University. Despite pausing her studies during the pandemic, Rivera remained a constant and active force on the national team, building an impressive resume that includes:
- A Fed Cup runner-up finish in New Zealand
- Six PCA Open doubles titles
- A Philippine National Games singles gold medal
- The 2019 Malaysia Open doubles championship
Fourth SEA Games Appearance and Team Dynamics
Rivera arrived in Manila from the United States on November 24, ready to join the national team's final preparations. In Bangkok, she will partner with Alexa Milliam in the women's doubles event. "Wala pa po kaming alam sa line up, pero mag doubles po ako sa Women’s with Alexa Milliam," Rivera confirmed, expressing her excitement and honor to represent the country again.
Her SEA Games debut was on home soil in 2019, followed by appearances in Vietnam and Cambodia. It was in Cambodia where she secured a team bronze medal alongside partner and now-world No. 50, Alexandra Eala.
The Philippine tennis contingent for the Bangkok Games is a blend of experience and rising talent. The squad is headlined by flag-bearer Alexandra Eala and includes:
- Francis Casey Alcantara
- Ruben Gonzales Jr.
- Eric Olivarez Jr.
- Alberto Lim Jr.
- Tenneille Madis
- Stefi Marithe Aludo
- Arthur Craig Pantino
They will be supported by a robust coaching and official staff featuring Joseph Lizardo, Johnny Arcilla, Denise Dy, and others.
A Journey Fueled by Pride and Sacrifice
For Rivera, each opportunity to compete for the Philippines carries deep emotional weight. "It’s an honor to represent the country once again," she shared. "Wearing the national colors always makes me reflect on how far my journey has taken and the people who’ve supported me. It’s an emotional and meaningful moment every single time."
She credits her resilience and the unwavering support of her coaches and teammates for her longevity in the sport. As she heads into her fourth SEA Games, her motivation remains clear and heartfelt. "Every time I wear the Philippine colors, I’m reminded of the journey, the sacrifices, and the people who believed in me," Rivera stated. "I want to make them proud."
With a career built on perseverance since her days in Davao, Shaira Hope Rivera steps onto the courts in Bangkok, hoping her experience and determination will translate into another medal for the Philippines.
