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Author: Dorothy Del Rosario

  • John Abis caps memorable rookie campaign with Ginebra championship 

    John Abis caps memorable rookie campaign with Ginebra championship 

    John Abis may have played a limited role during Barangay Ginebra’s championship run, but the rookie forward is savoring every moment of a title experience he waited years to achieve.

     

    Fresh off helping the Gin Kings capture the PBA Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup crown, Abis admitted he is still trying to process what it means to become a champion in his first conference in the professional ranks.


    “Di ko alam kung anong mararamdaman ko o anong sasabihin ko. Basta thank you Lord lang eh kasi naramdaman ko to, naranasan ko to na mag-champion dito pa sa PBA,” said Abis.

     

    Ginebra secured the championship after defeating TNT Tropang 5G in a do-or-die Finals showdown, ending a three-year title drought and snapping a string of frustrations in import-laden conferences.

     

    For Abis, the achievement carried added significance. The former University of Perpetual Help Dalta Altas standout had previously fallen short of winning championships during his younger playing days, making his first taste of success even more memorable.

     

    “Sobrang lucky ko kasi nakaramdam talaga ako ng champion and first ko pa, then rookie year ko pa,” he said.

     

    The 23rd overall pick in the 2025 PBA Draft was not among Ginebra’s primary scorers, but he provided valuable minutes throughout the conference and Finals whenever called upon by coach Tim Cone.

     

    Abis finished the Commissioner’s Cup with averages of 2.40 points and 1.70 rebounds per game, while earning praise for his hustle plays, defensive effort, and energy off the bench.

     

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    The 6-foot-3 forward maintained that his focus remains on contributing to the team in whatever role is needed.

     

    “Gusto ko lang makatulong sa team. Always ready lang kapag tinawag ni coach,” said Abis.

     

    The rookie also acknowledged the role of Ginebra’s passionate fan base in the team’s championship campaign. The Never Say Die faithful packed arenas throughout the Finals and provided the support that helped fuel the Gin Kings’ title charge.

     

    “Sa suporta ng NSD, walang makakatalo sa suporta ng NSD dito. Talagang solid silang sumuporta sa amin. Nagpapasalamat talaga kami sobra kasi grabe yung support nila. Grabe yung atmosphere ng NSD,” he said.

     

    As Ginebra begins preparations for the upcoming Governors’ Cup, Abis vowed to continue bringing the same intensity and work ethic that helped him earn a championship ring in his rookie season.

     

    “Same pa rin. Doon pa rin yung hustle ko. Di mawawala yan. Number one yun. Bibigay ko lang yung best ko. One hundred percent best,” he said.

     

    For a player drafted outside the first two rounds and still carving out his place in the league, the first chapter of Abis’ professional career could hardly have gone better. He arrived as a rookie looking for an opportunity. He finished his first conference as a PBA champion. 

     

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  • FIFA World Cup 2026 intensifies as Mexico, South Korea and four other nations chase knockout spots

    FIFA World Cup 2026 intensifies as Mexico, South Korea and four other nations chase knockout spots

    The race for survival intensifies as the FIFA World Cup 2026 enters another matchday, with several teams facing pressure to collect crucial points. After a dramatic opening round filled with late goals, red cards, and unexpected results, every match now carries greater importance as nations fight for a place in the knockout stage. 

     

     

    Czechia vs South Africa

     

    Both Sides Fight for Survival After Opening Defeats Friday’s (PHT) opening match in the FIFA World Cup 2026 schedule carries heavy consequences as Czechia and South Africa meet in Group A with both teams desperate to avoid an early exit.

     

    After losing their opening fixtures, another defeat could put either nation on the brink of elimination.

     

    Czechia suffered a painful 2-1 loss against South Korea despite taking the lead through Ladislav Krejci’s 59th-minute header. The European side appeared on course for a valuable result before the Taegeuk Warriors turned the match around with two late goals.

     

    Their situation is now critical. Czechia will be eliminated with a defeat if Mexico earns at least a draw against South Korea.


    South Africa, meanwhile, endured a difficult start against Mexico, falling 2-0 while also becoming the first nation since 2006 to receive two red cards in a World Cup match.

     

    The Bafana Bafana lost attacking midfielder Themba Zwane, who was handed a three-match suspension by the FIFA Disciplinary Committee, subject to appeal, after his red card in the 84th minute.

     

    Despite the pressure, the match carries a piece of history as it will mark the first time Czechia and South Africa meet on the World Cup stage.

     

    Switzerland vs Bosnia-Herzegovina

     

    Two teams search for first win after frustrating starts. Switzerland and Bosnia-Herzegovina enter their Group B showdown looking to turn missed opportunities into a much-needed victory.

     

    Switzerland looked ready to open their campaign with three points after controlling their match against Qatar, but a dramatic 94th-minute equalizer forced them to settle for a 1-1 draw.

     

    The result extended Switzerland’s struggles, with the team now holding only one win in its last six matches. Despite creating 26 shots, the Swiss found the net only once, with Breel Embolo converting from the penalty spot.

     

    The pressure is now on Murat Yakin’s side, who have reached the knockout rounds in each of the last three World Cups but have never advanced beyond the Round of 16.

     

    Bosnia-Herzegovina also experienced disappointment after allowing Canada to come back for a 1-1 draw.

     

    Coach Sergej Barbarez admitted his team showed a more defensive approach against the co-hosts, but Bosnia could become more aggressive if veteran striker Edin Dzeko returns after missing the opener due to injury.

     

    With both teams stuck on one point, this match could become a defining moment in their knockout-stage hopes.

     

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    Canada vs Qatar

     

    Canada and Qatar collide in a crucial Group B match with both nations still alive after collecting a point in their opening games.

     

    The Canadians earned their first-ever World Cup point after drawing Bosnia-Herzegovina 1-1, with Cyle Larin providing the equalizer.

     

    Now under coach Jesse Marsch, Canada enters the match boosted by the expected return of star defender Alphonso Davies, who missed the opener due to a hamstring injury.

     

    Davies’ pace could provide a major attacking weapon alongside Juventus forward Jonathan David, while Larin is also expected to return to the starting lineup.

     

    Qatar arrives with confidence after producing one of the biggest surprises of Matchday 1.

    The 2022 hosts showed composure and resilience by grabbing a late equalizer in the fourth minute of stoppage time to draw Switzerland 1-1.

     

    Under coach Julen Lopetegui, Qatar is expected to rely on defensive organization and quick counterattacks, with Akram Afif and Almoez Ali carrying the attacking responsibility.

    A win for either side could dramatically change the shape of Group B.

     

    Mexico vs South Korea

     

    Group A leaders meet as knockout spots come into focus. Mexico and South Korea meet in Guadalajara for a highly anticipated Group A clash, with both teams arriving after opening-game victories.

     

    Mexico started its World Cup campaign in impressive fashion, defeating South Korea 2-0 behind goals from Julian Quiñones and Raul Jimenez.

     

    Another victory could place Javier Aguirre’s team in a strong position to secure the top spot in the group.

     

    Aguirre, who took charge in 2024, brings international experience after previous coaching roles with Atletico Madrid, Japan, and Egypt.

     

    South Korea, however, enters the match with confidence after a dramatic comeback victory over Czechia.

     

    The Taegeuk Warriors overcame a first-half setback to win 2-1, showing the resilience that has become part of their World Cup identity.

     

    The team is led by Hong Myung-bo, who brings experience from his playing days in North America with the Los Angeles Galaxy.

     

    With both teams holding three points, this match could become the deciding battle for control of Group A.

     

    Mexico’s attacking strength and South Korea’s pace and discipline set up what could be one of the most entertaining fixtures of the day.

     

    With the group tables beginning to take shape, the matches could become the turning point of the tournament for many teams. Some nations are chasing qualification, while others are fighting to keep their World Cup dreams alive, making every goal, decision, and moment on the pitch more valuable than ever. 

     

     

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  • Carlos Yulo, Karl Eldrew Yulo headline Philippine campaign in Asian Gymnastics Championships

    Carlos Yulo, Karl Eldrew Yulo headline Philippine campaign in Asian Gymnastics Championships

    The 13th Senior and 19th Junior Asian Artistic Gymnastics Championships in Zunyi, China will mark the first time Carlos and younger brother Karl Eldrew Yulo compete together as members of the Philippine senior national team, adding a new dimension to the country’s campaign in one of Asia’s premier gymnastics events.

     

    The milestone comes as the Gymnastics Association of the Philippines (GAP) sends a strong delegation to China, with a 12-man squad competing in the men’s division and a separate contingent representing the country in the women’s events.

     

    For the Yulo brothers, the tournament represents more than just another international competition.

     

    Both athletes appeared in last year’s Asian Championships in Jecheon, South Korea, but they competed in different categories, with Karl Eldrew still part of the junior ranks. 

     

    After officially moving up to the senior division at the start of the 2026 season, the younger Yulo now joins his Olympic champion brother on the same team for the first time at the continental level.

     

    The experience could also serve as a preview of a bigger goal ahead, with the siblings hoping to compete side by side once again at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games scheduled from Sept. 19 to Oct. 4.

     

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    Leading the Philippine men’s senior squad are Carlos and Karl Eldrew, joined by Juancho Miguel Besana, Justine Ace De Leon, Zachary Nuñez, and John Ivan Cruz.

     

    Behind them is a promising junior team composed of King Cjay Pernia, Hillarion III Palles, John Anthony Palles, Rodrigo Woods, Josue Matito, and Marc Nathan Ayson, all looking to gain valuable international experience against some of the region’s best young gymnasts.

     

    The country’s women’s program will also be well represented in Zunyi.

     

    The senior women’s team features Chiara Dawn Andrew, Kylee Kvamme, Haylee Garcia, Amara Zoe Lagdameo, Cielo Andrea Esliza, and Angela Matilda Aboboto, while the junior squad is composed of Tchelzy Mei Maayo, Jellian Bantilan, Maxine Amira Bondoc, Aluna Margaux Labrador, and Maria Adriana Pasco.

     

    As the Philippines continues to build on its growing reputation in Asian gymnastics, the championships offer an opportunity for both established stars and emerging talents to test themselves against elite competition.

     

    The men’s events will run from June 18 to 21, while the women’s competitions are scheduled from June 25 to 28 at the Zunyi Olympic Sports Centre Stadium.

     

    While medals remain the ultimate objective, one of the most memorable moments for the Philippine delegation may already be guaranteed—the sight of the Yulo brothers wearing the same senior national team colors on the Asian stage for the first time.

     

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  • ‘Magnificent Seven’ set for Philippine Sports Hall of Fame enshrinement

    ‘Magnificent Seven’ set for Philippine Sports Hall of Fame enshrinement

    The Philippine Sports Hall of Fame will welcome its newest members in the fifth enshrinement ceremony on Saturday at the Philippine Sports Commission House, celebrating a group of athletes whose achievements helped shape the nation’s sporting history.


    The class, dubbed the “Magnificent Seven,” features Olympic boxing silver medalist Mansueto “Onyok” Velasco, basketball icon Ramon Fernandez, Paralympics bronze medalist Adeline Dumapong-Ancheta of para powerlifting, tennis standout Cecil Mamiit, athletics star Isidro del Prado, and two-sport achievers Bea Lucero-Lhuillier of gymnastics and taekwondo, and the late Eduardo Alvir Pacheco of basketball and football.

     

    Their induction marks another milestone for the Hall of Fame, which continues to preserve the legacy of Filipino athletes who brought pride to the country on the international stage.

     

    The announcement of the seven inductees was made last April, with the original ceremony scheduled for May. However, the Philippine Sports Commission decided to move the event to ensure the athletes themselves could attend and personally receive the recognition.

     

    During the Philippine Sportswriters Association Forum at the PSC media room, Anna Christine Abellana from the Office of Deputy Executive Director-Bureau on Coordinating Secretariat and Support Services explained why the ceremony was postponed.

     

    “He (Chairman Pato Gregorio) wants everyone to be here, that’s why we have to address the dates and invitations. So we even had to extend for a month para mahanap silang lahat,” she said.

     

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    The effort paid off, as all living inductees confirmed their attendance.

     

    Pacheco, who has already passed away, will be the sole inductee represented by his heirs during the ceremony. 

     

    Among the honorees, Mamiit’s attendance carries special significance. The 49-year-old former tennis star will travel from the United States to witness his own induction. A six-time Southeast Asian Games gold medalist and two-time Asian Games bronze medal winner, Mamiit remains one of the most accomplished Filipino tennis players in history.

     

    “He (Mamiit) has already confirmed, and he’ll be arriving on the 19th from the United States,” Abellana confirmed his arrival.

     

    The ceremony will be led by Philippine Sports Commission chairman Patrick Gregorio and Philippine Olympic Committee president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino, with First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos also delivering a special message.

     

    Aside from the honor of being inducted, each enshrinee will receive P500,000 and a specially designed Hall of Fame trophy created by Leandro Baldemor.

     

    The new trophy design will also be unveiled during the ceremony, marking a new visual identity for the Philippine Sports Hall of Fame.

     

    Jan Errol Facundo, head of the PSC Integrated Communication and Events Office, explained the significance of the new design.

     

    “The one they will be receiving will be the perpetual design of the (Hall of Fame) trophy. So magkakaroon ng bagong mukha ang tropeo ng Philippine Sports Hall of Fame. And it will be unveiled during the ceremony which will be another highlight of the program,” added Facundo.

     

    The event will carry a distinctly Filipino theme, with barong tagalog and Filipiniana elements incorporated into the venue branding and activities.

     

    “Our theme will be barong tagalog and Filipiniana and that includes the venue branding and other activations na gagawin sa loob ng ating venue,” said Facundo.

     

    For the organizers, the focus remains on the athletes and their stories.

     

    “We keep the program simple and meaningful kasi gusto ng ating chairman na ma-highlight ang ating mga enshrinees,” he said. 

     

    As the seven legends enter the Hall of Fame, the ceremony will serve as more than a celebration of medals and records, it will honor the perseverance and impact of athletes who helped define Philippine sports.

     

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  • Bennie Boatwright moves closer to Gilas Pilipinas role after Senate approves naturalization bill 

    Bennie Boatwright moves closer to Gilas Pilipinas role after Senate approves naturalization bill 

    The Senate approved on third and final reading the bills seeking the naturalization of Boatwright and wrestler Matthew Ramos, opening another important chapter in the Filipino-American basketball prospect’s journey toward becoming eligible to represent Gilas Pilipinas.


    With a 13-0 vote, the Senate gave the green light to House Bill Nos. 6639 and 6644, moving Boatwright one step closer to completing the process of becoming a naturalized Filipino citizen.

     

    The development could have a major impact on the future of Philippine basketball, as Boatwright has been identified as a potential successor to longtime naturalized player Justin Brownlee.

     

    Once finalized, Boatwright could become part of Gilas Pilipinas’ plans not only for the Asian Games in Nagoya, Japan, but also for FIBA-sanctioned competitions as the country continues its push toward the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

     

    Boatwright’s naturalization journey faced unexpected delays after his bill became caught in the middle of a Senate leadership standoff.

     

    Several measures, including the naturalization applications for Boatwright and Ramos, were left pending as the Senate dealt with an internal impasse.

     

    The situation changed after a few senators shifted blocs, prompting President Bongbong Marcos to call a special session before the opening of the Third Regular Session on July 27.

     

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    During that session, lawmakers were finally able to address the stalled measures, including the bills that could pave the way for Boatwright’s Gilas eligibility.

     

    Although Boatwright and Ramos were not physically present during the special session, the Senate approved their measures in absentia after acknowledging their efforts throughout the process.

     

    Senator Migz Zubiri highlighted the athletes’ commitment despite the previous delays.

     

    “I would just like to put on record, they were here three days straight in the last, before we ended the session. I think they’re back to training, so I think it’s okay we elect them in absentia, because they deserve it Mr. President,” Senator Zubiri said.

     

    The amendment was carried out under newly elected Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian after Alan Peter Cayetano stepped aside following Senator Joel Villanueva’s move to Gatchalian’s bloc.

     

    Senator Francis Pangilinan, who sponsored the naturalization measures, welcomed the approval and recognized the patience Boatwright and Ramos showed while waiting for the legislative process to move forward.

     

    For the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas, Boatwright represents a potential long-term addition to the national team pool.

     

    The former PBA import brings a unique skill set as a versatile big man who can stretch the floor, create scoring opportunities, and defend multiple positions.

     

    If the naturalization process is completed and all requirements are fulfilled, Boatwright would join Brownlee and Ange Kouame as foreign-born players eligible to wear the Gilas Pilipinas jersey.

     

    With Brownlee already established as one of the country’s most important international players, Boatwright’s potential arrival gives Gilas another weapon as it prepares for future global competitions and the ambitious goal of reaching the 2028 Olympic stage.

     

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  • George King makes PBA comeback with San Miguel Beermen for Season 50 Governors’ Cup 

    George King makes PBA comeback with San Miguel Beermen for Season 50 Governors’ Cup 

    George King’s journey after leaving the PBA took him across different basketball landscapes.

    From Lebanon and Egypt to Iraq, Taiwan, and most recently Germany with Gladiators Trier, the former Blackwater standout continued building his career overseas. Now, after nearly a year away from Philippine basketball, King is coming back with a new challenge waiting for him.


    The San Miguel Beermen have secured King as their import for the PBA Season 50 Governors’ Cup, hoping the explosive scorer can provide the offensive spark needed to revive their championship push.

     

    The move comes after a disappointing Commissioner’s Cup campaign for the Beermen. San Miguel went through three different imports—Marcus Lee, Justin Patton, and Bennie Boatwright, but struggled to find the consistency needed for a deep playoff run.

     

    The Beermen ended the eliminations as the sixth seed with a 7-5 record before falling to Rain or Shine in the quarterfinals, ending their pursuit of a grand slam season.

     

    Now, San Miguel is looking for a fresh start in the Governors’ Cup, a conference where the franchise has not lifted the championship trophy in 11 years.

     

    King enters the team with a reputation already established. During his first PBA stint with Blackwater, he quickly became one of the league’s most dangerous imports. King wasted no time making an impression.

     

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    King soon became Blackwater’s offensive engine, using his size, and scoring ability to create problems for opposing defenses. In the 2024 PBA Commissioner’s Cup, he averaged 34.5 points, 10.4 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game in 10 outings.

     

    His ability to score from inside and outside made him one of the toughest players to contain, especially when the game slowed down and teams relied on their imports to create offense.

     

    The scoring outburst highlighted the type of offensive force San Miguel is adding to its roster—a player capable of changing the direction of a game almost single-handedly.

     

    With San Miguel’s deep local lineup surrounding him, the challenge will be different. The Beermen are not simply looking for a scorer; they are hoping King can become the final piece of a championship puzzle.

     

    For King, the return represents another opportunity to prove himself in the league where he first made his name.

     

    For San Miguel, it is a chance to bring in an import who already understands the intensity, style, and pressure of the PBA.

     

    As the Governors’ Cup approaches, all eyes will be on whether George King can turn his second PBA chapter into a championship story.

     

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  • Justin Brownlee claims historic seventh PBA Title as Ginebra completes redemption against TNT 

    Justin Brownlee claims historic seventh PBA Title as Ginebra completes redemption against TNT 

    For years, Justin Brownlee’s greatness in the PBA has been measured by championships. On Wednesday night, he added another chapter to a legacy that may never be matched.


    With Barangay Ginebra defeating TNT Tropang 5G, 88-76, in the winner-take-all Game 7 of the PBA Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup Finals, Brownlee secured his seventh championship since his first PBA title in the league in 2016—a feat that officially places him alone atop the list of the most successful imports in PBA history.

     

    TNT had been the one opponent that managed to crack Ginebra’s championship armor in recent years, denying the Gin Kings multiple opportunities to add to their collection. This time, however, Brownlee and his squad refused to let history repeat itself.

     

    The victory also ended a two-year title drought for Ginebra, restoring the franchise to familiar territory at the top of the league.

     

    A decade after first stepping onto a PBA court, Brownlee continues to redefine longevity and excellence.

     

    “If you told me 10 years ago that I’d still be playing, and for a championship, I probably would not believe you. But I’ve been blessed to play for a great team and great coaches,” Brownlee said.

    The championship completed another remarkable conference for the 38-year-old, who also captured the Best Import award.

     

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    In doing so, he surpassed Alaska legend Sean Chambers, whose six championships under coach Tim Cone stood as the benchmark for imported players for decades.

     

    When Ginebra found itself under pressure late in the Finals, its longtime import delivered some of the most explosive performances of his career.

     

    Facing a crucial Game 5, Brownlee erupted for a career-high 54 points to push the Gin Kings within a win of the championship. He followed it with another scoring masterpiece in Game 6, pouring in 52 points. Despite his efforts, TNT survived and forced a deciding seventh game.

     

    The burden that had rested on Brownlee’s shoulders throughout the series finally eased in the finale.

     

    Scottie Thompson and RJ Abarrientos rediscovered their form at the perfect time, allowing Brownlee to focus on leading rather than carrying the team. He finished Game 7 with 30 points, 14 rebounds, and five assists as Ginebra pulled away in the second half to secure the title.

     

    “As an import in this league, there are times when you need to take over a game. I think there is a balance where sometimes I try to get other guys involved. But there were moments when I felt like I needed to be what an import is,” he said.

     

    For Brownlee, the championship became more emotional as the reality of the achievement settled in.

     

    “It means everything. Ten years ago, I’d never thought I’d be playing at 38 years old and win championships. But these fans give me the energy to play for them, play for my family,” Brownlee said after being announced as the Player of the Game in their do-or-die Finals match.

     

    The latest title only strengthened the belief of Tim Cone, the winningest coach in league history, that Brownlee’s place among the all-time greats is already secure.

     

    “I don’t think there’s any doubt. In my mind, he is the GOAT,” said Cone.

     

    “It’s hard to argue with the numbers he’s putting up, especially in this era where players are bigger and stronger. Imports can’t dominate like they used to, and the defense has become more sophisticated,” Cone added.

     

    As the celebrations continue, Brownlee’s attention will soon shift from club glory to national duty, with Gilas Pilipinas preparing for the next window of the 2027 FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers in July.

     

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  • Alex Eala delivers statement opening-round win over Donna Vekic at Berlin Open 

    Alex Eala delivers statement opening-round win over Donna Vekic at Berlin Open 

    The Filipina tennis star, Alex Eala delivered another statement performance at the WTA 500 Berlin Tennis Open on Wednesday, defeating Donna Vekic 7-5, 6-4 in a match that highlighted her growing maturity under pressure and her ability to thrive against experienced opposition.


    For Eala, the victory was more than another win over a familiar rival. It was a showcase of resilience, timing, and composure against a player who had just conquered a stacked field at the HSBC Queen’s Club Championships.

     

    The match began with Vekic looking every bit the player who had dominated in London the previous week.

     

    The Croatian broke Eala in the second game and quickly moved ahead 2-0 in the opening set. But the Filipina refused to allow the match to follow a predictable script.

     

    Eala immediately settled into her rhythm, erasing the early deficit and leveling the set at 2-2 before engaging Vekic in a series of high-quality baseline exchanges.

     

    One of the turning points came with Eala leading 3-2. Facing three break points at 0-40, she dug deep and protected her serve to stretch the advantage to 4-2. Vekic answered by taking three straight games and moving in front 5-4, seemingly seizing control of the set.

     

    Instead, Eala produced her strongest stretch of tennis when it mattered most.

     

    She captured the final three games of the opener to secure the set 7-5 after one hour and three minutes of intense competition.

     

    Eala carried that momentum into the second set and immediately applied pressure, breaking Vekic early to establish a 2-0 lead.

     

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    Although Vekic remained within striking distance and narrowed the gap to 4-3, the Filipina consistently found answers in critical moments.

     

    An unexpected interruption occurred when play was briefly halted due to a medical issue involving a spectator. After the delay, Eala quickly regained focus and held serve to edge closer to victory.

     

    Serving for the match, Eala faced four break points from the determined Croatian. Yet the Filipina once again displayed remarkable poise, escaping danger and sealing the 6-4 second-set win after 54 minutes.

     

    Her ability to save key break points throughout the contest underscored the difference between the two players on the day.

     

    She previously defeated the Croatian at the WTA 250 ASB Classic in New Zealand before prevailing again during an exhibition match at the Kooyong Classic in Australia.

     

    This latest triumph, however, carried the greatest significance given Vekic’s form entering Berlin.

     

    The 29-year-old had just captured the Queen’s Club title, defeating Emma Raducanu, Karolina Pliskova, and Katie Boulter en route to the championship. Vekic also became the first lucky loser since 2023 to end a tournament week as a WTA champion.

     

    Eala’s victory was powered by aggressive serving, including eight aces, and a willingness to attack in pressure situations.

     

    After the match, she acknowledged the challenge posed by her opponent.

     

    “I’m also a fighter. Donna is an incredible player and she’s been showcasing it a lot lately and every time I play her, it’s been very difficult,” Eala said.

     

    The win sends the world No. 35 into the Round of 16, where an even bigger challenge awaits as she will have a rematch against world No. 2 Elena Rybakina of Kazakhstan.

     

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  • Ara Galang turns national team comeback into inspiration for rising volleyball players 

    Ara Galang turns national team comeback into inspiration for rising volleyball players 

    After years of setbacks caused by injuries, Ara Galang finally returned to the international volleyball stage — and her biggest takeaway was not about personal redemption, but about inspiring the next generation of Filipino players.


    The veteran volleyball star was among the players selected for Alas Pilipinas’ campaign in the 2026 AVC Women’s Volleyball Cup, giving her the opportunity to once again wear the national colors after missing previous chances due to health setbacks.

     

    With her long-awaited return complete, Galang hopes young Filipino volleyball talents recognize the importance of every opportunity to compete for the country.

     

    “Sana, ‘pag dumating ang opportunity sa kanila, ma-grab nila ‘yon at mabigyan nila ng karangalan ang Philippines,” Galang said.

     

    The Philippines ended its AVC Women’s Volleyball Cup campaign in eighth place, but Galang chose to look beyond the result and valued the experience of representing the national team on the international stage.

     

    For years, Galang was regarded as one of the country’s top volleyball talents. However, injuries repeatedly disrupted her momentum and limited her chances of building a longer run with the national team.

     

    “Siyempre, hindi naman ito basta-bastang opportunity. Sobrang grateful ako, pero siyempre proud ako na i-represent ang Philippines. And sana patuloy na suportahan ng mga tao ‘yung Alas Pilipinas,” the open hitter of Farm Fresh Foxies said.

     

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    Despite the challenges faced by Alas Women in the tournament, Galang focused on the lessons gained from competing against stronger international opponents and the value of the experience for the growing program.

     

    “Actually, hindi ko rin alam, pero ako, tinatry ko lang din ibigay ‘yung best ko,” she said.

    Beyond her performance inside the court, Galang also embraced the role of becoming an example for younger players who look up to the national team.

     

    “Siyempre, nakakataba ng puso na nai-inspire ko pa rin sila hanggang ngayon, at dadalhin ko ‘yon sa araw-araw,” Galang added.

     

    Her return was also part of a veteran presence in the Alas Pilipinas lineup, with experienced players helping guide a squad still developing chemistry on the international stage. 

     

    While the team finished eighth, the campaign gave the Philippines valuable exposure against some of Asia’s strongest volleyball nations.

     

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  • South Korea players rally behind Son Heung-min, boycott media duties after military service remarks 

    South Korea players rally behind Son Heung-min, boycott media duties after military service remarks 

    South Korea’s players have stepped back from media duties at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after alleged comments mocking captain Son Heung-min’s military service background surfaced.


    The remarks were reportedly caught on a hot microphone during a training session at the team’s Guadalajara base camp, where members of the media allegedly made comments about Son’s military service background. 

     

    The incident quickly drew backlash, prompting players to show their support for their captain.

    Son’s military status has long been a sensitive issue in South Korea, where mandatory service remains an important national responsibility. 

     

    Most able-bodied men are required to serve, but Son received an exemption after helping South Korea win the gold medal in the 2018 Asian Games — an achievement recognized under the country’s exemption rules.

     

    Despite the exemption, Son still completed basic military training in 2020. Because of the significance of military service in South Korean society, discussions involving exemptions often generate strong public reactions.

     

    Following the controversy, South Korea’s players chose to limit their participation in non-mandatory media engagements with certain domestic media outlets, standing together in support of their captain.

     

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    The Korea Football Association (KFA) later condemned the remarks and stressed the importance of professionalism and respect when covering the national team.

     

    “The Korea Football Association expresses regret over the inappropriate remarks made by some media personnel during the national football team’s training at the Guadalajara base camp,” the KFA said in a statement.

     

    The federation also urged media members to show “greater consideration and a responsible attitude” toward the squad.

     

    “The Korea Football Association will continue to prioritise the protection of the squad and strive to create a healthy media environment,” it added.

     

    The players’ decision does not exempt them from FIFA-mandated obligations, as the squad will still be required to participate in official media activities throughout the tournament.

     

    With their focus now returning to the competition, the incident has become a moment of unity for South Korea as the team continues its World Cup campaign with Son at the center of the squad.

     

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