Manila is set to make history on the international tennis stage as it prepares to host its first-ever Women's Tennis Association (WTA) tournament next year.
Official Confirmation and Tournament Details
The Philippine Women's Open has been officially included in the WTA calendar, marking a significant milestone for Philippine sports. The development was confirmed by Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) Chairman Patrick Gregorio through a Facebook post from the PSC.
The inaugural WTA 125 tournament in the Philippines will take place from January 26 to 31, 2026. Chairman Gregorio has already begun collaborating with various government agencies and the Philippine Tennis Association (Philta) to ensure the event's success.
The tournament will feature a 32-player singles draw and a 16-team doubles competition, providing substantial opportunities for both local and international players.
Substantial Prize Money and Local Star Participation
The total prize pool for this prestigious event amounts to approximately $115,000, equivalent to nearly 7 million Philippine pesos, making it one of the most significant tennis tournaments ever hosted in the country.
There's exciting news for Filipino tennis fans as PSC Chairman Gregorio expressed hope that Filipina tennis ace Alex Eala will participate in the tournament. However, her participation will depend on her campaign schedule at the Australian Open, which runs from January 12 to February 1, 2026.
Impact on Philippine Sports Development
This landmark event represents a major step forward for Philippine tennis, potentially inspiring a new generation of athletes. The timing coincides with increased global attention on Filipino tennis talent, particularly following Alex Eala's previous international successes.
The tournament's organization through collaboration between the PSC, Philta, and government agencies demonstrates a coordinated effort to elevate the country's standing in international sports. This WTA 125 event could serve as a catalyst for more international tennis competitions in the Philippines, providing local players with valuable exposure to world-class competition without traveling abroad.
