Manila to host first WTA tourney as Philippine Women's Open scheduled for January 2026

MANILA, November 30 ------ A Women's Tennis Association (WTA) tourney will officially be hosted in Manila next year. This, as Philippine Women's Open is officially added to the WTA calendar, setting the stage for Manila's first-ever WTA 125 tournament. It will take place from January 26-31, 2026, and will be held at hard courts with a 32-player singles draw and 16-team doubles. The total prize commitment is at $115,000.

In an interview with a handful of reporters at the sidelines of the 3rd FIG Artistic Gymnastics Junior World Championships, Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chair Patrick Gregorio said they are expecting Filipina tennis sensation Alex Eala to participate, and could only skip the competition for one good reason — if she advances in the 2026 Australian Open, which she would take part in. The Australian Open takes place Jan. 12 to Feb. 1, 2026, coinciding with the Philippine Women's Open.

The PSC, in a Facebook post on Wednesday night, confirmed the development and shared that Gregorio led a coordination meeting with government agencies and Philippine Tennis Association (PHILTA) to make it happen.

Source: news.abs-cbn.com