Alexandra Eala carries flag for Philippines at 2025 SEA Games

Alexandra Eala's breakthrough 2025 season culminated with what she said was "an honor of a lifetime." On Tuesday, the 20-year-old had the opportunity to carry her nation's flag for the opening ceremony of the 33rd annual Southeast Asian Games.

Dressed in a Barong, Eala proudly carried the Philippines flag into Rajamangala Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand alongside volleyball player Bryan Bagunas.

She later detailed the pinch-me moment in an extensive post to Instagram with photos from the ceremony.

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The 52nd-ranked Eala and world No. 53 Janice Tjen of Indonesia lead their respective teams as the two highest-ranked players competing at the event, known as the SEA Games. The competition also features players from Laos, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam.

As a 16-year-old in her first appearance three years ago, Eala won three bronze medals across singles, mixed doubles and the women's team event.

The competition concludes on Dec. 20, after which Eala will kick off her 2026 season at the ASB Classic in Auckland beginning on Jan. 2.