Key Highlights
- Tennielle “Tenny” Madis is ranked No. 2 in the country behind Alex Eala.
- Madis will compete at the first-ever WTA 125 event through a wild card entry.
- The Philippine Women’s Open from January 26 to 31 features top Filipino players.
- Madis has recently won medals in the Southeast Asian Games and local tournaments.
Tennis Star Tenny Madis Set for Promising Debut at WTA 125 Event
MANILA, Philippines – As tennis thrives in the Philippines with Alex Eala leading the charge, another Filipino athlete is ready to showcase her prowess. Tennielle “Tenny” Madis, who currently holds the No. 2 spot in the country behind Eala, will make a significant mark at the Philippine Women’s Open from January 26 to 31.
Madis’ Journey and Achievements
Madis, an 18-year-old prodigy from M’lang, Cotabato, has been on a remarkable rise in her tennis career. After winning two medals at the Southeast Asian Games last December, she has also secured victories in local tournaments such as the Gentry Open and the Philippine Columbian Association championship.
“I’m very grateful for the wild card spot since it’s a great opportunity to compete at a higher level and gain experience,” Madis said in Filipino. “This is a chance to be better and be at my best.”
Preparation and Expectations
Madis will face Thailand’s Mananchaya Sawangkaew, who holds a career-high ranking of world No. 100, on Monday, January 26. Sawangkaew reached her first WTA 125 final in the Mumbai Open last year. Training at the Philippine Tennis Academy under coach Bobie Angelo, Madis is determined to perform well.
“My goal is to compete, have fun, and do my best because I know my opponents are stronger than me,” she said. “I just have to focus and carry the Philippine flag well.”
Support from Fans and Future Prospects
Madis acknowledges that her performance will be bolstered by the support of Filipino fans. “I’ve been training consistently so seeing the Filipinos watching will be special,” she added.
After this tournament, Madis is expected to play varsity collegiate tennis at the University of Hawaii, continuing a trend of talented Filipino players studying abroad in the United States.
The Manila event marks Madis’ first WTA event, providing her with an exciting platform to test her skills against world-ranked opponents. “I have no pressure at all. The wild card really means a lot to me, so I am excited,” she concluded.
As tennis gains more traction in the Philippines, athletes like Madis are paving the way for greater recognition and success on an international stage. Stay tuned as her journey unfolds.
– Rappler.com
