Manila: University of Santo Tomas ace Kaye Ann Emana is eyeing no less than the main draw of the Philippine Women's Open scheduled Jan. 26 to 31 at the newly renovated Rizal Memorial Tennis Center in Manila. The UAAP Season 87 Most Valuable Player defeated Elizabeth Abarquez, 7-6 (2), 6-2, on Wednesday to earn a wild card in the qualifying round on Jan. 24 and 25. She ousted top seed Tiffany Nocos, 6-4, 6-4, to set up the duel with Abarquez.
According to Philippines News Agency, Emana expressed her excitement about participating in a WTA event, stating her determination to deliver her best performance in the qualifying stages. The 20-year-old athlete, who is a third-year Information Technology student, acknowledged the challenging competition ahead but emphasized her rigorous training regimen to prepare for the event.
The Philippine Open qualifying will mark Emana's debut in an international tournament. She expressed gratitude for the opportunity to participate in the main draw qualifying, highlighting the valuable experience it would provide, especially if she advances to the main draw.
In the main draw of the WTA 125 event, World No. 49 Alexandra Eala and 2025 Philippine Columbian Association Open champion Tennielle Madis have been granted wild cards. Eala's participation in the Philippine event will depend on her performance at the Australian Open in Melbourne, as it will determine her availability for the first Grand Slam of the season.
